Barcelona are reportedly preparing a final, decisive effort to secure the services of Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez this summer. Despite the Catalan club’s persistent interest throughout the transfer window, Atletico Madrid have maintained a firm stance, signaling they have no intention of allowing the Argentine international to join a domestic rival.
According to reports, including insights from Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona intend to make one last concrete approach this week. While Hansi Flick’s side is eager to land the 26-year-old, they are unwilling to wait indefinitely and plan to pivot toward alternative targets should this final bid fail to materialize by next week. Currently, the club remains focused on their primary objective rather than exploring secondary options.
Alvarez became a priority for Barcelona following the departure of Robert Lewandowski, who joined MLS side Chicago Fire this summer after his contract at Camp Nou expired. The need for reinforcements has grown more urgent with the expected exit of Ferran Torres. The 2026 FIFA World Cup hero for Spain is reportedly nearing a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.
Since joining Atletico Madrid in 2024 for a reported €95 million, the 26-year-old Alvarez has proven his versatility. Capable of playing as a center-forward, a second striker, or on the flanks, he has recorded 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 appearances for Los Rojiblancos.
In other squad news, Barcelona defender Jules Kounde is not expected to leave the club despite recent links to Arsenal. The Premier League side has been scouting defensive options following injuries to Jurrien Timber and William Saliba, but no formal offer has been made to the Spanish champions. Furthermore, Kounde’s agent has explicitly denied reports of any meetings with Barcelona officials regarding a potential departure for the Frenchman.
Kounde, who arrived from Sevilla in 2022, has become a key figure for the club, making 188 appearances. Primarily shifting from center-back to right-back, he has contributed 10 goals and 22 assists, playing a vital role in securing seven trophies for the club, including three LaLiga titles.
The 37-year-old joined MLS side Chicago Fire this summer following his contract expiry at Camp Nou.
Julian Alvarez, now 26, is a dynamic forward who is capable on playing either as a centre forward or as a second striker.
Arsenal have been linked with the 27-year-old following injuries to their two star defenders, Jurrien Timber and William Saliba.
However, Barcelona are believed to be ready to make one final push for their dream target.
He has also been effective on the flanks when he has been deployed in wide positions across his career.
He has been fantastic for the LaLiga giants, especially since switching to right-back from his preferred centre-back position.
