Barcelona consider Julian Alvarez move as La Liga title hopes falter
Barcelona are assessing major squad changes, including a potential move for Julian Alvarez, after surrendering top spot in La Liga to rivals Real Madrid.
Hansi Flick’s side have suffered a damaging week which has exposed the fragility of their current squad depth.
A 4-0 thrashing by Atletico Madrid has all but ended their Copa del Rey campaign.
Matters worsened on Monday as a shock 2-1 defeat against Catalan neighbours Girona allowed Real Madrid to capitalize.
Los Blancos have moved two points clear at the summit of the table following the stumble by the defending champions.
Defensive worries and financial limits
The recent dip in form has highlighted an over-reliance on teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
However, the club’s well-documented financial issues mean Flick must carefully prioritise his summer targets.
While the defensive unit requires reinforcement, the hierarchy is torn between signing a centre-back or a marquee forward.
Internal discussions suggest a significant investment is required to compete with a resurgent Real Madrid side.
The hunt for a striker
Julian Alvarez has emerged as a primary target for the Camp Nou leadership.
The Argentine World Cup winner is admired by the coaching staff for his relentless pressing style.
However, Atletico Madrid are expected to demand a fee in excess of £85m (€100m) for the forward.
Alvarez has struggled for consistency recently, failing to score in 11 games before netting against the Catalans last week.
Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic is also being monitored as a potential alternative.
The Serbian international could represent a more cost-effective option as his contract situation in Turin draws to a close.
Lewandowski’s future in doubt
Any move for a new number nine casts doubt on the future of Robert Lewandowski.
The Polish veteran turns 38 in August and questions remain regarding his ability to lead the line for another campaign.
With Ferran Torres currently boasting a better goal-to-minute ratio than some transfer targets, the club faces a difficult decision on where to allocate their limited funds.