Barcelona are accelerating plans for life after Robert Lewandowski, with fresh reports revealing the four names currently under consideration to lead the club’s next attacking era.
According to Carrusel Deportivo, Barcelona’s shortlist for the centre-forward position currently includes Julian Alvarez, Joao Pedro, Lautaro Martinez and Mikel Oyarzabal.
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Following Lewandowski’s official decision to leave the club at the end of the season, Barcelona are now fully aware that signing a new striker has become one of the biggest priorities of the summer.
However, the situation is far from simple, as the club remains heavily restricted financially and much will depend on whether they can finally operate freely under La Liga’s 1:1 financial rule.
Until that situation becomes clear, Barcelona are being forced to study every possible option before committing to a major transfer.
A look at the options
Alvarez is Barcelona’s priority target. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
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Among the names under consideration, Julian Alvarez is viewed as one of the most attractive options.
The Atletico Madrid forward fits many of the qualities Barcelona are looking for, but the operation would be extremely difficult. In fact, next to impossible.
If Barcelona fail to secure Alvarez, the club already has alternative plans in place.
Both Joao Pedro and Lautaro Martinez are highly appreciated internally, with the two South American forwards seen as players capable of adapting well to Flick’s attacking system.
At the same time, Oyarzabal is viewed slightly differently.
Mikel Oyarzabal is on Barcelona’s radar. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
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This is because the Real Sociedad captain is considered one of the smartest and most balanced options available because of his experience, tactical intelligence and strong chemistry with several Barcelona players from the Spanish national team.
World Cup could inflate striker prices
One of Barcelona’s biggest concerns is that they know they must move quickly in the market because the upcoming World Cup could dramatically increase the value of several transfer targets.
If players like Alvarez, Lautaro or Joao Pedro perform strongly during the tournament, their asking prices could rise even further, something Barcelona can barely afford given their current financial situation.
Simply put, that urgency is creating pressure within the sporting department.
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