Deco’s Julian Alvarez transfer plan revealed as Barcelona prepare to wait until Atletico vs Villarreal | OneFootball

Barcelona are prepared to wait a little longer before making a final decision on their pursuit of Julian Alvarez, with Atletico Madrid’s La Liga clash against Villarreal set to provide an important indication of where the situation stands.

According to SPORT, Barcelona want to assess what happens around Alvarez before deciding whether there is still a realistic path towards a deal.

The Blaugrana have made signing a centre-forward a priority after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. 

Sporting director Deco has publicly confirmed that Barcelona intend to make another move in the transfer market, although he has avoided naming specific targets.

Behind the scenes, however, Julian Alvarez has remained Barcelona’s preferred option.

The club have kept their offer alive and remain willing to discuss improved terms if Atletico show any willingness to negotiate. But Barcelona’s patience is not unlimited.

If the door remains closed in the coming days, though, the Catalan giants are expected to make a decision and speak directly with Alvarez about the situation.

Barcelona and Alvarez have been in contact since February

Barcelona are ready to wait until this weekend for Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s interest in Julian Alvarez is not a last-minute development.

According to the report, the club first established contact with the player’s entourage in February, and discussions have continued since then.

From Barcelona’s perspective, the player’s position has been particularly encouraging.

Alvarez has been open to joining Barcelona and has remained committed to the possibility of making the move. However, his willingness alone has not been enough to unlock a transfer.

Atletico Madrid have consistently maintained their position, and the difficulty for Barcelona is that the positions remain far apart.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Alvarez does not want to force the issue or take matters further. The Argentine has not considered any form of public pressure or confrontation with Atletico.

Barcelona are not giving up on Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

That leaves Barcelona dependent on Atletico changing their stance.

The club has continued to believe that an agreement could eventually become possible, but they also know they cannot allow their search for a striker to remain frozen indefinitely.

Villarreal match to give Barcelona a clearer answer

Barcelona are now expected to watch closely when Atletico face Villarreal, which takes place this Sunday, August 22.

Alvarez’s involvement, his role in the team and the reaction surrounding him could offer another indication of how his situation is developing.

If the Argentine features and receives clear support from Atletico, Barcelona may receive a strong signal that the club remain fully committed to keeping him.

And that could accelerate the need for a Plan B, a possibility that Deco is prepared for.