Atletico Madrid director a huge admirer of struggling Barcelona forward | OneFootball

Ferran Torres finds himself at the centre of growing transfer speculation, with Atletico Madrid emerging as a potential suitor.

According to reliable journalist Matteo Moretto in MARCA, Atletico’s sporting director Mateu Alemany is a long-time admirer of the Spanish forward. 

“He’s one of Mateu Alemany’s favourite players,” says Moretto while discussing his situation.

Despite recent criticism over a dip in goal-scoring form, it is to be noted that Ferran remains a valuable asset within Barcelona’s squad. 

His versatility and work rate continue to make him a useful option in multiple attacking roles. However, his long-term position at the club is far from guaranteed.

The post-Lewandowski era

Barcelona are already planning for the future, particularly in the post-Robert Lewandowski era. 

The club is expected to bring in a traditional number nine, which could significantly alter the attacking hierarchy and reduce Ferran’s prominence in the squad.

Interestingly, the situation becomes even more complex when considering Barcelona’s reported interest in Julian Alvarez, a key player for Atletico Madrid. 

Atletico Madrid are taking a shine at Ferran Torres. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

This could create some sort of deadlock as both clubs are monitoring players from each other’s squads.

In this situation, Atletico Madrid seem to have the better leverage as Alvarez is not only in top form but his transfer valuation and contractual situation give the Rojiblancos the upper hand.

Despite that, Moretto emphasised that Barcelona have not yet made a definitive call regarding his departure. 

“Barça hasn’t made a firm decision yet on whether Ferran can leave. 

“I think it depends on other players whose futures are uncertain, like Rashford or Lewandowski,” he noted.

As such, there are reports in the market that Barcelona could be open to giving away Ferran as part of a player plus cash deal in order to secure the Argentine.

In that case, Barcelona will then have to decide on Lewandowski’s continuity.