Barcelona Intensifies Striker Search Ahead of Lewandowski’s Departure

omidbasir- Barcelona is ramping up its efforts to find a striker to succeed Robert Lewandowski this summer, with Julián Álvarez and Dusan Vlahovic emerging as primary targets, according to various sources reported by ESPN.

Lewandowski, 37, is due to become a free agent in June, and while no decision has been made regarding his future, Barcelona has begun strategizing for a potential post-Lewandowski era.

Club sources indicate that president Joan Laporta harbors ambitions of securing Álvarez from Atlético Madrid, perceiving him as the ideal acquisition. However, sporting director Deco is exploring more economical alternatives.

Acquiring Álvarez is expected to be a complex endeavor, as Atlético Madrid is likely to demand over €100 million ($118 million) for the forward. Furthermore, there may be competition from other prominent European clubs, including Premier League leaders Arsenal, who are also contemplating a move for the Argentine international.

In light of these challenges, Deco is considering other candidates to fill the void left by Lewandowski, including Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian forward had been on Barcelona’s radar even before his transfer to Juventus from Fiorentina in 2022, and his impending free agency makes him a particularly appealing option for the LaLiga club this summer.

Currently sidelined due to a groin injury, Vlahovic, 25, had netted six goals and contributed two assists in 17 appearances across all competitions for Juventus prior to his injury.

Álvarez, another player Barcelona has monitored for several years, became a subject of interest even before his transfer to Manchester City, with club scouts in South America recommending his signing. Despite the financial implications of securing a deal for Álvarez, club sources remarked that “there is still a long way to go” in the pursuit of the player, and that “many developments could occur, but we remain vigilant regarding the situation.”

Álvarez, who has scored 11 goals in 29 games this season, has a contract with Atlético Madrid that extends until 2030, with a staggering release clause set at €500 million.