Barcelona has the green light to sign Julián Álvarez from Atlético Madrid in 2026
Barcelona have set their sights on Julián Álvarez as the ideal heir to Robert Lewandowski, with the Argentine striker from Atlético Madrid seen as a priority for the 2026 season.
Álvarez on Barça’s radar
According to reports from Fichajes, Barcelona consider Álvarez one of their top attacking targets for the coming years. Club officials know Lewandowski, despite his excellent form, is nearing the final stages of his career, and they see the World Cup winner as the perfect long-term replacement.
The Catalans are aware that negotiations with Atlético Madrid will be anything but simple. However, they believe Álvarez’s willingness to move to Camp Nou could play a decisive role in making the deal possible.
Established star at Atlético
Álvarez joined Atlético Madrid last season after two years with Manchester City and has quickly become indispensable for Diego Simeone. In his debut La Liga campaign, he registered 29 goals and 8 assists in 57 matches, contributing directly to 37 goals numbers that underline his impact in Spain.
He has already started the current season strongly, scoring a spectacular free-kick against Espanyol, although Atlético ultimately fell 2-1.
Barcelona’s transfer priorities
While Álvarez is viewed as the long-term solution up front, Barcelona are expected to rely on Lewandowski until 2026. The Polish striker remains a central figure in Hansi Flick’s plans, having delivered impressive individual numbers last year.
For now, Barça’s immediate focus in the transfer market appears to be defensive reinforcements. Club president Joan Laporta reportedly dreams of signing Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni, one of the most sought-after centre-backs in Europe.
