Barcelona has already set plans in motion for life after Robert Lewandowski, even though the Polish striker remains under contract until June 2026. The club’s leadership acknowledges that his role as the main figure in their attack is gradually nearing its conclusion.
While the iconic number 9 shirt will still be worn in the upcoming season, the sporting department has started outlining a strategy to secure a suitable successor to lead the frontline in the coming years.
According to reports from the Spanish outlet El Nacional, Julián Álvarez has emerged as the top candidate among Barcelona’s decision-makers. The Argentine forward, who joined Atlético Madrid from Manchester City in a surprising transfer last summer, is highly regarded by the club’s technical staff. His versatility, youthful energy, and ability to influence matches both inside and outside the penalty area make him an attractive option for Barcelona’s future ambitions.
Rather than opting for a sudden overhaul of the attack, Barcelona intends to manage the transition gradually. If all goes according to plan, the 2025/26 campaign will mark Lewandowski’s final season as the focal point of the team’s offense. In the meantime, Ferran Torres is expected to shoulder greater responsibilities as the team begins to prepare for a new attacking era.
Club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco have both agreed that a major addition to the attacking lineup will be necessary ahead of the 2026/27 season. Within this framework, Álvarez stands out as their preferred target.
His rapport with rising stars Pedri and Lamine Yamal further strengthens his candidacy, as both young players have expressed their admiration for the striker’s work ethic, versatility, and seamless ability to connect with teammates.
Álvarez has proven his capabilities throughout his debut season with Atlético Madrid. His knack for scoring, assisting, pressing opponents, and adapting to various tactical scenarios aligns perfectly with Barcelona’s historic playing style.
Not only does he possess significant experience in European football and with the Argentine national team—having lifted the 2022 World Cup in Qatar—but he also embodies the qualities Barcelona values in their attacking players.
While securing Álvarez’s services won’t be straightforward, given Atlético’s heavy investment in him, Barcelona believes the player’s ambition for greater achievements could persuade him to embrace a fresh challenge at Camp Nou.
His strong connections with Pedri and Yamal might ultimately help sway his decision, as the club sees him as a pivotal piece in a youthful, dynamic squad aimed at restoring Barcelona’s dominance in European football.
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