Joan Laporta approves the arrivals of Julián Alvarez and Bastoni at Hansi Flick’s Barcelona

President Joan Laporta has given the green light for two marquee transfers in the summer of 2026, placing Manchester City’s Julián Álvarez and Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni at the top of Barcelona’s long-term recruitment list. According to El Nacional, the moves are part of a strategic plan to reshape the squad under coach Hansi Flick.
Replacing Lewandowski and Martínez
Álvarez is seen internally as the natural successor to Robert Lewandowski, whose contract will expire in 2026 and who has drawn interest from Saudi Arabia. Bastoni, meanwhile, is viewed as the ideal candidate to replace Iñigo Martínez, who has joined Al-Nassr.
While Flick is reportedly also fond of German striker Nick Woltemade, the club hierarchy considers Álvarez and Bastoni as priority targets due to their proven quality at the highest level and compatibility with the team’s tactical blueprint.
Financial Roadmap for Big-Money Moves
Barcelona’s board, led by Laporta, is already assessing the financial requirements for the double signing. Atlético de Madrid value Álvarez at €90 million (≈R$569 million), while Inter Milan are demanding €70 million (≈R$442 million) for Bastoni.
Combined, the deals could exceed €150 million (≈R$948 million), a figure that currently rules out any immediate action. Laporta is confident, however, that the club’s finances will be stabilised by 2026, making the acquisitions feasible.
Strategic Shift for the Future
The pursuit of Álvarez and Bastoni signals a shift in Barcelona’s long-term planning, with Laporta aiming to deliver Flick a reinforced squad capable of sustaining domestic and European success. Both players have been formally approved at the highest levels of the club’s leadership.
Season Opener
Barcelona, the reigning La Liga champions, begin their title defence on Saturday, August 16, at 14:30 local time against Mallorca away from home, following a prolific pre-season in which they scored 20 goals in five matches.