Hansi Flick Identifies Julián Álvarez as Top Target to Lead Barcelona’s Attack
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has informed sporting director Deco of his preferred striker to lead the club’s attack next season, amid a transfer window buzzing with speculation and big-name links.
Despite interest in top forwards such as Erling Haaland, Marcus Rashford, Nico Williams, Alexander Isak, Rafael Leão, and Jeremy Doku, Flick has made it clear that Julián Álvarez is his first-choice target to spearhead the front line at Camp Nou.
Praising the Argentine international, Flick stated, “He’s the player I really want. I believe he can thrive in La Liga, and both the board and I are determined to bring him in.” His endorsement reflects a broader effort by the club to revamp its attacking unit, with several current players potentially on the way out.
Currently starring for Atlético Madrid and already a World Cup winner with Argentina, Álvarez is seen as a natural successor to veteran striker Robert Lewandowski. His combination of youth, sharp finishing, and creativity fits perfectly with Flick’s vision for a dynamic and modern attack.
Although Álvarez’s contract includes a hefty €150 million release clause, both Flick and club president Joan Laporta are reportedly eager to move forward with a deal—potentially targeting a 2026 arrival but remaining open to an earlier move if the finances allow.
While alternatives remain on the table—Rashford may be open to a reduced salary to facilitate a move, and Nico Williams, Ademola Lookman, or Luis Díaz are among the fallback options—Álvarez remains the clear priority.
Haaland continues to be admired by the Barcelona hierarchy, but financial constraints and contractual complications make that pursuit unlikely in the near term. Flick’s focus on Álvarez signals a strategic shift toward building a young, cohesive, and sustainable attack rather than chasing headline-making signings.
In summary, Hansi Flick has made his intentions known: Julián Álvarez is the striker he sees as central to Barcelona’s attacking future, with the board ready to back his vision.
