Reports from Sport suggest that Barcelona is actively considering a move for Manchester City forward Julián Álvarez.
The interest in Álvarez is reportedly driven by Barcelona’s manager, Xavi Hernandez, who sees the 23-year-old as a highly promising player.
Álvarez has stepped into a more significant role at Manchester City this season, impressively tallying six goals and five assists.
He has demonstrated his versatility as a creative midfielder, notably in the absence of the injured Kevin De Bruyne.
According to the report, Álvarez may come with a €50 million release clause, a figure that could entice Barcelona, given their financial constraints.
The club has been constrained from pursuing top forwards across Europe due to the need to adhere to La Liga’s financial fair play regulations by cutting down on transfer spending.
The report further indicates that Barcelona is actively seeking a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who, at 35, hasn’t replicated the success he enjoyed in Germany with Bayern Munich during his time in Spain.
Lewandowski has managed six goals and four assists across all competitions this season, and his recent injuries have raised doubts within the club regarding the wisdom of extending his contract.
While Barcelona has secured 18-year-old forward Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense for €40 million, effective July 2024, it is apparent that the club is also on the lookout for a forward who can make an immediate impact.