After Alvarez Snub! Is Barca Signing an Inter Star?

Sporting director Deco continues to push forward with squad planning at FC Barcelona!

With World Cup winner Rodri, Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi, and Jesse Bisiwu, the Catalans have already signed four players for 170 million euros. Additionally, full-back Joao Cancelo is on the verge of a return (All info >>>).

Who will succeed Lewandowski?

However, since two central strikers, Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski, have also left the club, the reigning Spanish champions are still searching for a new "number 9".

Currently, 18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim, who made a splash during pre-season, is the only nominal central striker in the "Blaugrana" squad. However, with captain Raphinha and new signings Gordon and Adeyemi, there are at least wingers who could theoretically play there.

Head coach Hansi Flick's absolute top target to succeed Lewandowski is Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid.

However, weeks of negotiations have not led to a breakthrough. Also because the "Rojiblancos" are unwilling to let the player move to Barcelona under any circumstances (Read more here >>>).

Lautaro Targeted

Accordingly, the Catalans must now look into possible alternatives. According to Spanish and Argentine media, Lautaro Martinez is now coming into focus.

The Argentine is under contract with Inter Milan until 2029 and, as captain of last season's double winners, is practically indispensable.

According to the "Gazzetta dello Sport," a purchase of Martinez would be "difficult to impossible" for Barca.

Impressive Stats

The 28-year-old striker moved from his homeland to Milan in July 2018. For Inter, Martinez has played 376 games, scoring 175 goals and providing 56 assists.

For the Argentine national team, the 2022 World Cup winner has 84 appearances and 40 goals.

His market value is estimated at 85 million euros by "Transfermarkt."