Barcelona set to return for Julian Alvarez in January with €70 million financial cushion | OneFootball

Barcelona have already decided what comes next in their pursuit of Julian Alvarez.

The Catalan club failed to pry the Argentine away from Atletico Madrid during the summer, but according to SPORT, that was not the end of the story. 

Rather, Barça are now preparing to return for the forward when the January transfer window opens.

Alvarez ultimately remained at the Metropolitano after Atletico Madrid refused to negotiate with Barcelona. 

Barcelona accepted the outcome rather than forcing a deal, but they have not changed their opinion of the player.

Barcelona choose to wait rather than walk away

The interesting part of Barcelona’s position is that the club does not view the arrival of Gabriel Jesus as a replacement for Alvarez.

Barcelona plan to return for Julian Alvarez in January. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Jesus was brought in to solve an immediate problem in attack, but Barça still regard the Argentine as a different kind of opportunity. 

The Brazilian’s signing would therefore not necessarily prevent another major investment in the forward line, giving the Catalan club a reason to wait.

As per the outlet, Barcelona could have around €65-€70 million of financial fair play room available in January, providing them with a potential financial cushion to revisit the operation.

That money could also be used to strengthen another position, including at centre-back, but only if Hansi Flick decides that defensive reinforcements are required.

For now, though, Alvarez remains the priority.

Alvarez faces a difficult few months

Meanwhile, it is crucial to note that the situation is considerably more complicated from the player’s perspective.

The next months will be very difficult for Alvarez. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Alvarez chose to stay at Atletico, but his relationship with the club’s support has already become strained. 

The Argentine could face an even more hostile reception when he returns to the pitch at the Metropolitano.

There has even been talk of Atletico asking him to apologise publicly to supporters and change his agent following the events of the summer, although neither scenario currently appears particularly likely.

Alvarez now has roughly four months to change the conversation before Barcelona potentially return. 

His performances, his relationship with Diego Simeone and the reception he receives from Atletico supporters will all critically influence the circumstances surrounding any January approach.