Barcelona Gives Alvarez Final Deadline, Backup Plan Ready

Barcelona enters a critical phase in its pursuit of Argentine striker Julian Alvarez, having set July 31 as the deadline to finalize the deal, before considering alternative options if negotiations continue to stall.

Spanish newspaper "Marca" reported that the end of the World Cup means the final chapter in the Julián Álvarez saga. The Catalan club believes it is time to make a definitive decision, especially with Atlético Madrid's insistence on keeping the player and their refusal to entertain the idea of selling him.

Miguel Angel Gil Marin has made his club's position clear, emphasizing that they have informed the player, his agent, and Barcelona's president of their intention not to part ways with him. He added that Atletico Madrid will not accept any offer, whether it amounts to €100 million, €150 million, or even €200 million.

Marca reports that Barcelona is beginning to realize the challenges in completing the transfer, and the chances of signing the Argentine striker will remain tied to the player's decisive stance towards his club's management. Although Julian Alvarez recently reiterated that a move would be the best solution for everyone, his latest statements have been less emphatic than before.

The report indicated that Barcelona will not wait until the end of the transfer market, as they will grant a deadline until July 31 only. This aligns with the statements made by club president Joan Laporta, who previously confirmed that Barcelona's offer is not open indefinitely. If no positive signs emerge before this date, negotiations will come to a complete halt.

Marca has confirmed that Deco and coach Hans Flick are already considering available alternatives, as the club prefers to sign a new top-tier striker, benefiting from the recent €105 million financial injection. Conversely, relying on internal solutions, such as Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, or Lamine Yamal in a false nine role, remains a viable option if the plan to sign a new striker does not succeed.