Barcelona could turn to Lautaro if Alvarez deal stalls next week

According to the Spanish media outlet El Desmarque, if there is no progress in signing Alvarez, Barcelona is considering turning to Lautaro.

The Barcelona management, led by Deco, still views Alvarez as the top target for strengthening the attacking line, but they are increasingly aware that it will not be easy to persuade Atletico Madrid to let him go, as Atletico Madrid is completely unwilling to sell. Flick insists that after Lewandowski's departure and Ferran Torres's likely departure, the team must sign a striker, otherwise there will be no "number 9" in the squad. Barcelona's idea is still to continue pushing for Alvarez's transfer, but the situation of the Argentine striker is delicate; although he wants to join Barcelona, he returned to Atletico Madrid training this Monday.

El Desmarque's report states: "Barcelona is still waiting for Alvarez because he is the striker they want most. They believe this week could be crucial, as after communicating with Simeone and the sports management, he will ask to leave Atletico Madrid and play for Barcelona."

"However, internally at Barcelona, they are also starting to consider that if there is still no progress in Alvarez's transfer next week, they will have to activate Plan B, because Flick wants a striker. According to information obtained by El Desmarque, Lautaro's name is starting to carry a lot of weight. The Internazionale player is highly appreciated by Flick and Deco."

Lautaro is about to turn 29, and his contract with Internazionale does not expire until 2029, meaning he is also firmly tied down. Transfermarkt values him at 85 million euros, and his departure from Internazionale would be anything but easy, especially with Serie A about to start.

AF's PC site is now live! Browse full news, comments, match details and stats on your computer. Visit: www.allfootballapp.com