RESOLVING THE LEDGER
This is one outlet's own report from Yahoo Sports — the article as it was filed. Other outlets are covering the same event; open the full story to compare every source side by side.
See the full story · 1 sourcesBarcelona remain patient in their search for a new top striker – report
Following Robert Lewandowski’s departure, Barcelona made signing a new centre-forward one of their main priorities this summer.
Backed by Hansi Flick, sporting director Deco launched an ambitious move for Julián Álvarez, submitting a €100 million offer to Atletico Madrid.
So far, however, Barcelona have achieved no breakthrough. Instead, Atlético have publicly pushed back against the Catalan club, criticising their pursuit through social media campaigns and comments from club executives Miguel Angel Gil Marín and Enrique Cerezo.
The dispute has also escalated legally, with Atletico filing a complaint to both the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and FIFA.
No sense of panic at Barcelona
Despite the uncertainty, Barcelona remain calm, reports Ferran Correas of SPORT .
The La Liga champions still want to sign a striker, and internally there is no attempt to hide that objective. However, they also believe they have already made a fair offer for Alvarez and have no intention of overpaying or forcing a deal.
Alvarez remains the priority. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
There is also confidence that this summer’s business has already strengthened the attack considerably.
The arrivals of Karim Adeyemi and Anthony Gordon have added versatility rather than simply replacing Lewandowski.
Adeyemi is capable of playing anywhere across the front three. Meanwhile, Gordon, naturally strongest on the left, can also operate centrally.
Plenty of firepower available
Alongside Adeyemi and Gordon, the squad includes: Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres, provided he remains at the club.
In addition, highly rated youngster Jesse Bisiwu and 18-year-old Egyptian striker Hamza Abdelkarim are viewed as exciting options for the future.
Hamza has impressed throughout pre-season, scoring both of Barcelona’s goals in the recent draw against Birmingham City, while Bisiwu is expected to train regularly with the first team despite his young age.
Barcelona also know they have additional tactical flexibility. Dani Olmo is capable of operating as a false nine if required, giving Flick another attacking solution.
Julian still waiting for Atletico to act
Meanwhile, during the World Cup, Alvarez publicly stated that he wanted Atletico Madrid to negotiate his departure, believing it would be the best outcome for everyone involved.
Alvarez wants the transfer. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
Although he never specifically mentioned Barcelona, the Argentine has long been linked with a desire to play for the Catalan club. Despite those comments, Atleti have maintained their position and continue to refuse negotiations.
One key date could be 10 August, when Alvarez is scheduled to return for preseason training.
According to people close to the player, he feels Atletico have not honoured previous assurances that they would be open to discussing his departure. His next move could prove decisive.
Alternatives are limited
At the same time, Barcelona recognise that replacing a striker of Lewandowski’s calibre is far from straightforward .
The market offers very few elite centre-forwards. Erling Haaland is not expected to leave Manchester City. Harry Kane previously made it clear that he intends to remain at Bayern Munich.
While Deco has undoubtedly prepared alternative targets, Barcelona are not rushing into another signing.
For now, the club will continue to wait for developments in the Alvarez situation.
If the Argentine ultimately remains at Atletico Madrid, Barcelona are prepared to move on without panic rather than making a desperate late addition.
AIPROPX is an independent multi-source news index — we track, compare, and connect coverage from across the web into one place you won't find anywhere else.