🔵🔴 Barcelona Target Julián Álvarez as Long-Term Successor to Lewandowski — Pedri and Yamal Urge Club to Act Fast
FC Barcelona is laying the groundwork for life after Robert Lewandowski, and the club’s future plans are starting to take shape. While the Polish striker’s contract runs until June 2026, internal discussions at Camp Nou make it clear: a gradual transition away from the 35-year-old as the attacking focal point is already underway.
According to El Nacional, the Blaugrana’s top choice to lead the post-Lewandowski era is Julián Álvarez, who stunned many with his move from Manchester City to Atlético Madrid last summer. The Argentine forward, still only 24, has reportedly impressed Barcelona’s coaching staff, directors — and perhaps most importantly, the club’s rising stars.
🔁 A New Number 9 Plan
Barcelona doesn’t intend to overhaul the frontline overnight. Instead, the plan is for Lewandowski to remain part of the squad next season, albeit in a reduced role. Players like Ferran Torres are expected to take on more responsibility in attack, with Álvarez envisioned as the long-term solution starting in the 2025/26 season.
🧠 Why Álvarez? Versatility, Mentality, and Experience
Álvarez’s appeal lies in his hybrid playing style — a striker with the instincts of a midfielder. His movement, pressing ability, vision, and technical skill make him an ideal fit for Barcelona’s possession-based system. He links up well with wide players, drops deep to build attacks, and works tirelessly off the ball — all qualities that match the Barça identity.
Despite not winning silverware with Atlético this season, Álvarez tallied strong numbers and consistently impressed in big matches. His pedigree, which includes a World Cup title with Argentina in 2022, adds to his reputation as a proven performer on the global stage.
🗣️ Pedri and Yamal Back the Move
Support for Álvarez’s arrival isn’t just from the boardroom. El Nacional reports that Pedri and Lamine Yamal — two of Barcelona’s brightest young stars — have made an urgent request to President Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco to secure Álvarez’s signature.
The pair are reportedly close to the Argentine and admire his communication, competitive mindset, and ability to raise the level of everyone around him. They believe he would be the perfect focal point for a project centered around youth, technical excellence, and team unity.
💰 Transfer Challenge Ahead
Of course, signing Álvarez won’t come cheap. Atlético Madrid paid a significant fee to lure him from Manchester City, and they view him as a centerpiece for their own future. However, sources say that a lack of trophies — and the pull of Barcelona’s vision — could tempt Álvarez to consider another move if the club comes knocking in 2026.
📈 What’s Next?
While no formal negotiations are underway yet, Barcelona’s internal consensus is clear: Julián Álvarez is the striker they want leading the next era. If Pedri and Yamal’s influence is anything to go by, the wheels might already be in motion.
