Three ways Barcelona can line up if they sign Atletico Madrid superstar | OneFootball

It is very much known that Barcelona are actively searching for a long-term solution in the number nine role, and one name that continues to gain traction is Julian Alvarez. 

The Argentine forward, currently among the most in-form attackers in world football, is seen as a player who could redefine how Barça approach their attack under Hansi Flick.

There is no denying that any move for Alvarez would require a significant financial commitment. 

Barcelona are well aware of the cost involved, especially given his importance at both club and international level. 

However, the idea of making a statement signing in the striker position is very much alive. Internally, there is a growing belief that investing heavily in a forward who offers tactical flexibility could solve multiple problems at once.

With that in mind, here are three distinct ways Barcelona could line up if they successfully secure his signature.

Alvarez as the lone striker

Julian Alvarez could lead the lines as a lone forward.

The most straightforward and arguably safest option would be to use Alvarez as the central striker. 

This setup allows Barcelona to maintain the structure that has already shown promise, especially in matches where positional discipline and control are key.

In this role, Alvarez would take over responsibilities currently shared by Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. 

His movement off the ball would add a new dimension, offering more fluidity compared to a traditional target man. 

Unlike Lewandowski, who thrives inside the box, Alvarez tends to drift into pockets of space, linking play and dragging defenders out of position.

For Flick, this would mean minimal tactical disruption. The wingers would continue to provide width, the midfield would remain structured, and Alvarez would act as the focal point, albeit a more dynamic one. 

Alvarez as the number 10

Julian Alvarez can also play as an attacking midfielder

Perhaps the most intriguing option lies in Alvarez’s versatility. He has repeatedly shown that he is more than capable of operating behind a striker, functioning as a creative and pressing-oriented number 10.

This approach would allow Barcelona to keep Lewandowski in the starting XI while integrating Alvarez into a deeper role. 

The Argentine’s ability to press aggressively, combine quickly, and arrive late into the box makes him an ideal fit for this position, and there are numbers to prove it.

When playing as a second striker or as an attacking midfielder, Alvarez has scored 17 goals and 14 assists in 46 matches.

Meanwhile, from a tactical standpoint, this could be one of the most balanced solutions, as Lewandowski would continue to occupy defenders centrally, while Alvarez operates in the spaces between midfield and attack. 

It would also enhance Barcelona’s pressing structure, something Flick values highly, as Alvarez is relentless without the ball.

All-out attack with Alvarez and Ferran

Julian Alvarez can play alongside Ferran Torres too.

Then there is the most aggressive option – one designed for moments when Barcelona need goals, intensity, and unpredictability.

In such scenarios, Flick could opt for a more daring approach by pairing Alvarez with Ferran Torres up front. 

This would create a fluid, high-energy attacking duo, as both players are comfortable interchanging positions, making runs in behind, and pressing defenders relentlessly. 

This would be particularly effective against teams that sit deep, where movement and unpredictability are essential.

While this setup sacrifices some control in midfield, it compensates with sheer attacking threat as Raphinha and Lamine Yamal will be firing from the wings too. 

Indeed, it is not a system Barcelona would use every week, but in specific situations, it could be devastating.