Barcelona are long-standing admirers of Alvarez, with club chiefs viewing him as a potential successor to Lewandowski
Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez remains open to a potential future move to Barcelona, his agent has confirmed. The Argentine had a standout debut season in the Spanish capital in 2024-25, scoring 29 goals in 54 appearances, his best-ever return.
Alvarez joined Atletico last summer from Manchester City and made an immediate impact, quickly establishing himself as a key figure in Diego Simeone’s attack. But as Barcelona begin to map out life after the 36-year-old Robert Lewandowski, the Argentine has emerged as a long-term target in Catalonia.
His agent Fernando Hidalgo has responded to the interest by saying that while the player is currently focused on Atletico, there was always room for future negotiations.
“The day-to-day is at Atletico,” Hidalgo said on Spanish TV programme El Chiringuito. “We will see how the negotiation goes. Football changes quickly. There will need to be talks between the clubs, and a deal will have to be made.”
Alvarez has five years remaining on his contract with Atletico, but Barcelona view him as a natural successor to Lewandowski, their highest goalscorer last season and whose deal expires in 2026. Club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco are said to be admirers of the Argentine, with internal evaluations describing him as a modern, mobile No 9 capable of leading Barcelona’s line for years to come.
One factor that could play in Barcelona’s favour is Alvarez’s longstanding admiration for the club and his idolisation of Lionel Messi.
“He received many calls, but Atletico want him to stay for now,” said Hidalgo. “He has always followed Leo Messi’s career, and I don’t think many Argentines grow up without a strong feeling for Barcelona.
“Julian is very grateful to many Barcelona players who have spoken highly of him. That motivates him a lot.”
