Barcelona take first step towards signing Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez | OneFootball

Barcelona have taken the first step towards signing Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez. 

According to a report from ESPN, the Blaugrana have initiated contact with Atletico to find out their stance over the possible transfer of Alvarez this summer. 

The 26-year-old has been impressive for Diego Simeone’s side since joining from Manchester City in 2024 for a fee worth up to €95 million. 

He tallied 29 goals in his debut season, and has also enjoyed an excellent campaign in 2025-26. 

The Argentine has featured in 47 games across all competitions, bagging 19 goals and nine assists in the process. 

Barcelona are left impressed with Alvarez’s displays and are targeting a summer move.

But Atletico have no intention to sell their top performer, who is contracted at the Metropolitano Stadium until 2030. 

The Rojiblancos would even be willing to offer him an improved contract until 2032 to avoid an exit. 

Barca are currently operating just outside of La Liga’s financial fair play rules, and so they will not be able to spend a lot in the upcoming transfer window. 

But the Spanish giants hope to move within the league’s regulations and also believe Alvarez’s willingness to move could play an important role in a potential deal. 

Barcelona are looking to sign a replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who could leave at the end of his contract this summer. 

The club also have Ferran Torres, but the 26-year-old is not a natural striker and his deal will expire in June 2027. 

Stats from Transfermarkt