PSG, Man United stars feature as Barcelona line up alternative targets amid Julian Alvarez complications | OneFootball

Barcelona continue to explore the market for a new striker after encountering major obstacles in their pursuit of Julian Alvarez. After all, his club, Atletico Madrid remain unwilling to negotiate over the Argentine.

Meanwhile, Harry Kane is also admired at the club, but he has made it clear that he has no intention of leaving Bayern Munich.

With Robert Lewandowski gone, strengthening the attack has become one of the club’s priorities. Deco still hopes to sign Alvarez, but is already working on several alternative options should those ambitions prove unattainable, reports SPORT.

Eli Junior Kroupi (AFC Bournemouth)

One of the names attracting attention from Barcelona is Eli Junior Kroupi. The 19-year-old French forward enjoyed an impressive campaign with Bournemouth, scoring 13 goals in 33 Premier League appearances.

A product of Lorient’s academy, Kroupi moved to England last summer for €13 million and has quickly established himself as one of the most promising young strikers in Europe.

His pace, mobility and ability to combine with teammates fit the profile Barcelona appreciate, although his age means any move would represent a significant gamble.

Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad)

Mikel Oyarzabal is an option for Barcelona. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Another option under consideration is Mikel Oyarzabal. The Real Sociedad captain arrives off the back of an excellent season, scoring 18 goals and helping his side lift the Copa del Rey. He further enhanced his reputation with a brace for Spain at the World Cup on Sunday.

At 29, Oyarzabal brings experience and already has strong relationships with several Barcelona players through the Spanish national team. His understanding of La Liga is viewed as another major advantage.

Gonçalo Ramos (PSG)

Barcelona are also keeping a close eye on Gonçalo Ramos during the World Cup. The Portuguese striker, represented by superagent Jorge Mendes, could be easier to negotiate for than some other targets.

Despite not being a regular starter under Luis Enrique in the Champions League, Ramos still managed 12 goals in 45 appearances for PSG. His lack of guaranteed playing time in Paris could open the door to a move if Barcelona decide to pursue him seriously.

Benjamin Sesko (Manchester United)

Barcelona admire Sesko. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Benjamin Sesko is another player under consideration. The Slovenian forward scored 12 goals in his first season at Manchester United following his €76.5 million move from RB Leipzig.

However, he struggled to secure a regular place under both Ruben Amorim and Michael Carrick. Barcelona believe the 23-year-old still possesses enormous potential and view him as a possible long-term solution.

Deco faces a key decision

Alvarez and Kane remain Barcelona’s preferred targets, but the club are preparing for all scenarios.

The bigger question facing Deco is whether to commit more than €100 million to secure a proven superstar, or invest closer to €50-60 million on a player from the next tier below.

Kroupi, Oyarzabal, Ramos and Sesko all offer different qualities and varying degrees of risk. As the summer unfolds, Barcelona’s sporting director will need to decide whether to pursue a marquee signing or spread the club’s resources more carefully.