MD: Barça targets proven players; Alvarez is the forward top pick

According to the latest report from *Mundo Deportivo*, Barcelona plans to sign a striker, a left-footed center-back, and a winger this summer, and they are only considering players who have already proven themselves.

It is reported that Barcelona has already formulated its short-term transfer strategy. Although the final decisions will depend on players’ performances until the end of this season, certain names and guiding principles have already been established.

First, there are three positions to reinforce this summer: a striker, a left-footed center-back, and a winger—this is an idea agreed upon by Flick and the club’s sporting management. Furthermore, any new signings must be proven talents capable of making an immediate impact.

Barcelona had previously shown interest in 16-year-old Palmeiras winger Eduardo da Conceição Machado, but he is not included in the club’s current plans.

This is not due to a lack of potential on his part, but because Barcelona’s financial resources this summer must be allocated toward established stars rather than developing players, whose costs would still be substantial.

In the striker position, Barcelona’s primary target is 25-year-old Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward is considered the best candidate to succeed Robert Lewandowski, as he not only excels at linking up and organizing attacks but also possesses an exceptional goal-scoring instinct.

As for center-back, there are numerous candidates on the list. The most desirable—but nearly unattainable due to his price—is Joško Gvardiol. Alessandro Bastoni is also on the list, though Inter Milan is unlikely to let him go easily. Nico Schlotterbeck, on the other hand, appears more attainable, as his contract runs until 2027.

Regarding the winger position, Barcelona is currently proceeding with the permanent signing of Marcus Rashford as planned. According to the agreement reached with Manchester United last summer, the English forward’s transfer fee is set at €30 million.