Deco Scrambles as Atlético Blocks Álvarez Pursuit
FC Barcelona is actively evaluating striker alternatives, including Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres and Club Brugge’s Nicolo Tresoldi, as the summer transfer window approaches its final week.
According to reports from José Alvarez on El Chiringuito TV, the Catalan club’s pursuit of primary target Julián Álvarez has stalled due to Atlético Madrid’s reluctance to sell. This resistance has forced sporting director Deco to construct a series of contingency plans for the number nine position.
Expanding the Shortlist Beyond Atlético
For much of the summer transfer window, Barcelona focused its recruitment efforts on Julián Álvarez. However, Atlético Madrid has consistently refused to negotiate a sale for the Argentine forward.
With the deadline looming, the club has expanded its shortlist. Recent weeks saw links to Inter Milan star Lautaro Martínez, though that operation remains complicated. To avoid relying on a single option, Barcelona has added Viktor Gyokeres and Nicolo Tresoldi to its radar, according to José Alvarez.
Weighing Gyokeres and Tresoldi Profiles
Gyokeres provides a more established, physically imposing presence in the box and a reliable goal threat at Arsenal.
Concurrently, Arsenal maintains an interest in Álvarez; should the Gunners secure a deal for the forward, they might prove more open to parting with the Swedish international. Tresoldi represents a younger, developmental investment path, highlighting Barcelona’s strategy to explore multiple squad profiles rather than committing to a single blueprint.
Hansi Flick’s Tactical Adaptability
Barcelona requires a natural centre-forward following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. Manager Hansi Flick has utilized flexible attacking arrangements in pre-season fixtures and domestic competition, deploying Raphinha through the middle with success.
The squad also features versatile attacking options including Anthony Gordon, Fermín López, and Dani Olmo, who can deputize in central roles.
Navigating the Final Hours of the Window
Because internal solutions exist, the sporting department faces pressure to avoid overspending on a permanent signing unless the profile aligns precisely with Flick’s tactical system and guarantees sufficient goal output.
Deco and the technical staff cannot afford to wait until the final hours of the market to test whether a marquee transfer is feasible. Maintaining active dialogue with Atlético Madrid for Álvarez remains the primary objective, but keeping secondary options viable ensures the club can pivot rapidly before the window closes. It remains uncertain whether Barcelona will finalize a deal for a new central striker in the coming days.
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