Barcelona identify five alternatives if Julian Alvarez deal collapses – report | OneFootball

Barcelona are not putting all their eggs in one basket as they continue their pursuit of Julian Alvarez. 

While the Atletico Madrid forward remains the club’s preferred target to strengthen Hansi Flick’s attack, the operation has become increasingly complicated, prompting the Blaugrana hierarchy to explore alternative options.

On that note, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have already begun assessing a list of potential replacements should a deal for Alvarez ultimately fail to materialise. 

Barcelona activate contingency plan as Alvarez talks stall

Barcelona’s opening proposal of €100 million for Alvarez was reportedly met with a firm response from Atletico Madrid, who are said to value the Argentine at €120 million while also asking for a high-profile player to be included in the deal.

The Catalan club have no intention of accepting those terms, leaving negotiations at a delicate stage.

Rather than waiting for talks to develop, Barcelona have started reviewing other strikers capable of leading the line next season. 

Julian Alvarez is Barcelona’s priority target. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

At this point, no formal approach has been made for any of the alternatives, but several names have emerged as part of the club’s internal discussions.

A look at the alternatives

As per the outlet, among the options considered, Victor Osimhen is understood to be one of the strongest candidates if Alvarez proves unattainable.

Osimhen has become one of Barcelona’s leading contingency options thanks to his proven goalscoring record and profile as a traditional No. 9.

Furthermore, Lautaro Martinez has also been considered, although his contractual situation makes any deal difficult. 

Joao Pedro, who was previously viewed as one of the most suitable tactical fits, has become a more complicated option in recent weeks.

Elsewhere, Serhou Guirassy remains a player Barcelona are monitoring. 

Vlahovic has offered himself to Barcelona. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Borussia Dortmund striker has attracted attention partly because of a release clause that applies to a select group of Europe’s biggest clubs, even though the Bundesliga side continue to insist they want to keep him.

Harry Kane has also been mentioned during discussions, but the Bayern Munich forward is believed to be settled in Germany, while the financial package required to complete such a transfer would present a major obstacle.

As for Dusan Vlahovic, despite being linked with Barcelona on several occasions in recent years, the Serbian is not currently viewed as one of the club’s preferred solutions.

Barcelona’s priority remains unchanged

Although Barcelona are preparing for different scenarios, the club’s position has not changed. Alvarez remains the first choice option.

This means keeping alternative options ready is simply part of that process. 

Rather than allowing negotiations over one player to influence the entire summer, Barcelona want to ensure they can move on if circumstances change.