Barcelona identify three alternatives if Julian Alvarez pursuit fails | OneFootball

FC Barcelona have a clear candidate in mind as they look to replace Robert Lewandowski in their squad in the upcoming summer transfer window, i.e., the Argentine forward Julian Alvarez. The Catalans have had no success in their attempts up to now to convince Atletico Madrid to part ways with him, but everything indicates that they are driven to do everything in their power to land the former Manchester City striker.

Unfortunately, even this would not guarantee them getting their preferred target, and as a result, SPORT reports that the Blaugranes are keeping three alternatives in mind, i.e., Harry Kane, Junior Kroupi, and Mikel Oyarzabal, while the option of Joao Pedro has cooled down because of his high price tag and Chelsea’s reluctance to part ways with him.

Although he is close to turning 33 years of age, there is no doubt about Kane’s abilities, and no one at Barcelona would resist his arrival. This is especially the case after their recent experience with Robert Lewandowski, and the form the English forward has shown with Bayern. However, to land him, the Catalans would have to negotiate with the Bavarians, who have openly expressed how integral a part of their team the Englishman is.

On the other end of the spectrum is the Bournemouth forward Junior Kroupi, who at only 19 years of age is gaining traction in European football at a very good pace. He is particularly liked by Deco, but getting him would not be easy either, especially as the Premier League side has set his starting price at around €100 million, even though he is still a teenager, but big clubs like Arsenal and PSG are willing to pay it.

Lastly, there is another experienced option, i.e., the Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal. Although he is not an out-and-out striker, Hansi Flick would still welcome him in his team, especially as he has only gotten better with age. Real Sociedad are also not expected to readily part with him, but his €75 million release clause still keeps him within the reach of Barcelona.