Barcelona have identified Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic as their primary alternative to replace Robert Lewandowski, after failing to make headway in their pursuit of Atlético Madrid’s Julián Alvarez.
The Julián Alvarez Deadlock
Despite being Hansi Flick’s top choice to lead the line next season, a move for Julián Alvarez looks increasingly unlikely. Speaking to El Desmarque, the Argentine’s agent, Fernando Hidalgo, was blunt about the speculation linking his client to Barcelona, PSG, and Arsenal:
“There is no interest at this time. I haven’t met with any club,” Hidalgo stated. With a contract running until June 2030, Atlético Madrid are in no rush to sell, and any potential deal would require a world-record fee something currently beyond Barcelona’s reach.
Vlahovic: The Free Agent Opportunity
With the Alvarez door seemingly closed, ESPN reports that Barcelona have pivoted to Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian international is in a unique position; his contract with Juventus expires this June, meaning he is already eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside of Italy.
Signing a “number nine” of Vlahovic’s caliber as a free agent would be a masterstroke for Joan Laporta’s board, allowing them to replace the outgoing Lewandowski without a massive transfer fee. While clubs from the Premier League and Saudi Arabia are also circling, the allure of leading the line for the Blaugrana is expected to make Vlahovic prioritize a move to Catalonia.
The Post-Lewandowski Era
Robert Lewandowski’s legendary stint at Barcelona is nearing its conclusion as his contract enters its final months. Whether it’s the high-priced “Spider” Alvarez or the clinical “Serbian Tower” Vlahovic, Barcelona are determined to secure a world-class successor before the July window opens.
Filepe Junior is a football writer tracking La Liga transfers, covering major signings, squad planning, and player movements across Spanish clubs.
