Barcelona not actively pursuing Bundesliga goal machine as Julian Alvarez remains priority | OneFootball

Barcelona are on the lookout for a new striker who can fill the huge boots left behind by legendary Polish forward Robert Lewandowski.

The 37-year-old forward left Barça at the end of last season upon the expiry of his contract and is now set to move to MLS to play for Chicago Fire.

To replace him, it does look like the Catalan club have set their sights on Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez, but recent links to Harry Kane have also emerged.

However, according to SPORT, Kane is not currently an option for Barcelona. They did make an enquiry for the Englishman but were told he does not want to leave Bayern this summer.

That has stopped the interest for now. Barcelona may admire Kane’s quality, experience and goalscoring record, but there is no active operation if the player is not open to a move.

Julian remains first choice

The report adds that Julian Alvarez remains Barcelona’s first choice, especially because the Argentine has explicitly stated his desire to join the club.

Barcelona’s first-choice to strengthen the No. 9 position. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

That is the key difference between Kane and Julian right now. The England captain may be a world-class number nine, but he is settled at Bayern.

Alvarez, on the other hand, represents a player with a clear personal pull towards Barcelona. He has made his stance on leaving Atletico this summer public.

The Argentine also fits what Hansi Flick wants. He can press, combine, attack space and play across the front line.

He is not just a box striker. He is a modern forward who can make the whole attack more aggressive.

Barça must stay realistic

Still, signing Alvarez will hardly be a cakewalk. Atletico Madrid remain firm and do not want to open the door to Barcelona lightly.

Kane is happy and settled at Bayern Munich. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

That means Barça are dealing with two very different obstacles. Kane is blocked by the player’s lack of interest. Alvarez is blocked by Atletico’s resistance.

In both cases, desire matters. Barcelona need a striker who not only fits the team but also wants the move enough to push the situation.

Kane is unlikely to be an option this summer, so he is one name that can be put on the back burner. For now, Barcelona should put all their efforts into signing Julian.

There is a clear reason why he remains the dream, and it remains to be seen whether the Catalans are able to convince Atletico to sell him this summer.