After reaching an agreement to acquire Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, Barcelona is turning its focus to Julián Álvarez of Atlético Madrid, according to various ESPN sources.
The La Liga champions are excited about the prospect of landing Álvarez, who has also drawn interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal. Reports suggest that the Argentine forward prefers a move to Barcelona over his other options.
Sources indicate that Barça representatives have already met with the 26-year-old’s agents to explore a potential transfer.
As reported by ESPN, Barcelona finalized a deal with Newcastle for Gordon, which could exceed €80 million ($93 million), as they look to reshape their attack for the upcoming season.
It’s noted that Gordon’s signing is separate from their search for a new striker to replace Robert Lewandowski, who will be leaving the club at the end of his contract.
However, Barça’s pursuit of Álvarez is expected to be more complex than the swift agreement made for Gordon, facilitated by sporting director Deco’s visit to England.
With Atlético Madrid setting a high asking price, negotiations may take some time, possibly extending beyond the World Cup.
Earlier in March, ESPN revealed that Barcelona has plans to revamp their forward line this summer with two acquisitions. The future of Ferran Torres is also uncertain, as his contract runs until 2027.
Torres is among several players Barça might consider selling to raise funds for Álvarez, who could cost upwards of €100 million ($116 million).
While the club is aware they can’t engage in a bidding war with Champions League finalists PSG and Arsenal, they are hopeful that Álvarez’s preference for playing under Hansi Flick will work in their favor.
– Barcelona completes €70M transfer for Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon – sources
– Transfer rumors, news: Man United tracking Botafogo’s Danilo
– LaLiga 2025-26 awards: Yamal, Barcelona dominate in Spain
PSG coach Luis Enrique is spearheading the French club’s pursuit of the former Manchester City striker, who is attractive due to the opportunity to win major titles after a trophy-less season with Atlético.
If PSG defeats Arsenal this weekend, they could make history by winning back-to-back Champions League titles, while Arsenal recently secured their first Premier League title in 22 years.
Álvarez is under contract with Atlético until 2030, with a release clause set at €500 million ($582 million). The club maintains that he is not for sale, but coach Diego Simeone is open to allowing a departure if the right offer comes in and if the player expresses a desire to leave.
Since joining Atlético from City in 2024 for more than €85 million ($99 million), he has scored 49 goals in 106 matches.