Three low-cost Julian Alvarez alternatives for Barcelona – including Manchester City ace | OneFootball

Barcelona’s search for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski has become one of the defining stories heading into the summer transfer window. 

The club’s interest in Julian Alvarez is no secret, and internally, the Argentine forward is viewed as the ideal profile to lead the line.

However, as is often the case at Barcelona, ambition must be balanced with financial reality. 

There is a clear gap between admiration and execution, and in Alvarez’s case, that gap feels wider than ever.

The forward is currently a key player at Atletico Madrid, and the Madrid-based club have no intention of negotiating easily. 

Add to that his long-term importance in Diego Simeone’s project, and the situation becomes even more complicated. 

Even in a hypothetical scenario where the player pushes for a move, Barcelona would likely need to exceed €100 million.

With that in mind, Barcelona must think smart rather than big and on this note, here are three low-cost options for Barcelona to consider.

Fisnik Asllani – A development bet with upside

Barcelona can think of Fisnik Asllani. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

One such name under consideration is Fisnik Asllani. The 23-year-old forward, currently at Hoffenheim, has built a respectable season, registering nine goals and eight assists in 28 appearances across all competitions.

While those numbers may not immediately scream “Barcelona level,” there is a bigger picture to look at. 

Asllani is playing in a system that does not dominate possession the way Barcelona do, and his profile suggests he could thrive in a more structured attacking setup.

Under Flick, who has a proven track record of improving attacking players, Asllani could develop significantly. 

At an estimated €30 million valuation (Transfermarkt), he represents a calculated risk rather than a financial burden. 

For a club in transition, that kind of gamble may be exactly what is needed.

Etta Eyong – The untapped potential

Barcelona can gamble on Etta Eyong. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Another intriguing option is Etta Eyong, a player who has been loosely linked with Barcelona for some time. 

Although speculation around his future has cooled in recent months, the upcoming transfer window could easily reignite interest.

Currently playing for Levante, the 22-year-old has contributed 10 goals (six goals and four assists) in 27 appearances this season. 

While he is far from the finished product, Eyong offers something Barcelona value highly – room for growth.

Financially, the deal is feasible. With a market value of around €18 million and a €30 million release clause, Eyong is accessible even within Barcelona’s tight budget. 

More importantly, learning alongside Lewandowski could accelerate his development and help him adapt to the demands of elite football.

Omar Marmoush – The most realistic solution?

Omar Marmoush could be the most realistic option. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

If Barcelona are looking for a balance between quality, experience, and affordability, Omar Marmoush could be the most realistic option on the list.

Currently at Manchester City, Marmoush finds himself in a familiar situation, competing for minutes behind a dominant number nine in Erling Haaland. 

It is a scenario that mirrors Alvarez’s experience before his move to Atletico Madrid.

Marmoush’s versatility and direct style make him an appealing fit for Barcelona’s evolving attack. 

Unlike a pure target man, he can operate across the front line, offering tactical flexibility, something Flick highly values.

From a financial standpoint, the deal is also realistic, as reports suggest Manchester City could be open to offers in the region of €50 million, making him significantly more attainable than Alvarez while still providing proven quality.