Barcelona continues to study its options to replace Robert Lewandowski, whose contract expires next summer, amid the difficulty of his continuation despite not ruling it out completely. With the existing confidence within the club in Ferran Torres, the need remains to sign an additional striker, according to the Spanish newspaper "Sport".

The newspaper explained that the name Julian Alvarez is still strongly considered within Barcelona’s corridors, despite President Joan Laporta’s recent attempts to downplay the rumors, recognizing the difficulty of the deal and the complexity of its conditions. With Erling Haaland ruled out due to his high cost and his long contract renewal with Manchester City, Alvarez emerges as one of the preferred options alongside other names.

The newspaper mentioned that the 25-year-old Argentine striker is greatly admired within the Catalan club and is seen as a long-term investment deal. However, his transfer from Atlético Madrid remains complicated, especially after the entry of the American investment fund into the club’s ownership structure, which strengthens its financial capability.

The newspaper added that one of the factors that might open the door for the deal is the player’s own desire, as Alvarez is known for his great admiration of Lionel Messi and his inclination towards Barcelona since childhood. Also, Atlético Madrid’s season ending without titles might push him to consider a new experience in search of a project capable of competing for championships, which could help impose negotiations, especially given the huge release clause of 500 million euros and a contract extending until 2030.

In the financial context, the newspaper pointed out that the expected improvement in Barcelona’s revenues with the gradual return of fans to the Spotify Camp Nou stadium and the approach to applying the 1:1 rule may give the club greater flexibility in the market. Nevertheless, completing a deal that may exceed 100 million euros will remain contingent on selling a prominent player, even with providing a potential salary for Lewandowski.

The report confirmed that the many conditions and complexities do not prevent Barcelona’s management from keeping the option of contracting Julian Alvarez open, with readiness to make a serious attempt if the suitable conditions are met.