Barcelona are reportedly working on a strategy to sign Argentine international striker Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, with the Catalan club aiming to bring the cost of any potential deal well below the striker’s current valuation.
Alvarez has emerged as Barcelona’s priority attacking target ahead of the summer window, but Atletico are understood to value the Argentine forward around the region of €150 million.
Despite that, the Blaugrana believe there is room to negotiate under the right conditions.
According to Que t’hi Jugues, the La Liga champions are exploring a player plus cash structure as part of their approach, with the intention of reducing the overall fee to below €100 million.
This internal plan reflects a belief within the club that a straightforward purchase at Atletico’s asking price would be financially unrealistic.
While Atletico Madrid have maintained that they are not actively looking to sell the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner, there are indications that the possibility of a summer exit is not completely ruled out.
Los Colchoneros’ interest in Mason Greenwood could play a role in potentially opening the door for a more flexible negotiation between the two Spanish giants.
Barcelona’s pursuit of a new centre-forward comes amid uncertainty surrounding Robert Lewandowski, whose contract situation at the Spotify Camp Nou remains shrouded in uncertainty.
Even with the possibility of an extension, the club are keen to secure a long-term solution in the No.9 role.
As things stand, Atletico Madrid’s current stance as regards Alvarez’s valuation makes any potential deal a complicated one.
However, Barcelona’s willingness to explore creative solutions may just increase their chances of reaching an agreement with the Spanish capital club.
