Barcelona’s interest in Julian Alvarez is neither new nor impulsive. There is a general feeling within the club that the current financial situation makes immediate action impossible.
Yet despite these limitations, Barcelona continue to put the Atletico Madrid striker firmly on their long-term radar as a potential successor to Robert Lewandowski in 2026.
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Alvarez is said to fit the profile Barcelona are increasingly focusing on.
He’s young enough to justify a long-term deal and experienced at the highest level, and will be viewed as a fully amortizable investment rather than a short-term fix.
not that easy
That said, operation is far from straightforward.
That’s because Atletico Madrid’s recent ownership change has made things even more complicated.
They are no longer a club under financial pressure, which greatly reduces the likelihood that Atletico will be forced to negotiate. On paper, Barcelona’s influence is minimal.
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However, Barcelona Believe that certain conditions may alter the balance. One of the key factors is the players themselves.
What is that condition?
Barcelona continue to monitor Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Dennis Doyle/Getty Images)
According to Sport, if Atletico ends the season without a major trophy, it could enhance players’ desire to seek new projects, with title contention a continuing expectation.
In this case, Alvarez’s push for action was absolutely necessary.
His release clause is as high as 500 million euros, which is unattainable, and the contract is valid until 2030. Without the active participation of players, any negotiations will be deadlocked on arrival.
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Barcelona, meanwhile, believe their situation will be very different by then. The club expects to have around 60,000 spectators at Camp Nou at the end of the season.
This return will significantly increase match day revenue. Coupled with the fact that the club is close to a full return to 1:1 financial rules, Barcelona is expected to regain real spending power.
Even so, a deal of around or more than €100 million would almost certainly require a significant sale.
Lewandowski’s eventual departure will free up a significant salary, but that alone won’t be enough. To make the numbers work, a high-profile exit may be needed.
There are many moving parts and no guarantees. However, despite the complicated situation, Barcelona has not closed the door.