Barcelona have reportedly made Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez their No.1 transfer target for the summer of 2026, with president Joan Laporta personally selecting the Argentine forward as Robert Lewandowski’s long-term successor.
According to Sport, Alvarez is tied to Atletico until 2030 and has a €500m (£436m/$587m) release clause. While Atletico are expected to demand no less than €200m (£174m/$234m), Barcelona are confident they can make a move once Lewandowski departs in 2026, which would free up financial space under La Liga’s spending rules.
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Personal terms are not expected to be a problem, as Alvarez inspired by Lionel Messi has been a Barcelona admirer since childhood.
Alvarez has been in fine form this season, scoring six goals and adding one assist in seven appearances, including a brace in last week’s Madrid derby.
However, speculation of friction with manager Diego Simeone surfaced after Alvarez showed frustration when subbed against Mallorca, though the striker later dismissed talk of a rift.
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With presidential elections looming, Laporta is keen to deliver a marquee signing to lift fan morale. While Alvarez remains the priority, Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy are also on Barcelona’s radar.
Both Alvarez and Barcelona now face testing Champions League nights — Atletico meet Eintracht Frankfurt on Tuesday, while Barca host reigning champions PSG.
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