Barcelona are pushing to complete a second blockbuster signing this summer, opening talks over a €100 million deal for Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez just days after sealing Anthony Gordon’s €80M transfer from Newcastle United.
Sporting director Deco returned to Spain midweek after finalizing Gordon’s move in London, and immediately met Álvarez’s agent Fernando Hidalgo in Barcelona.
The meeting, also attended by agent Juanma López who has strong ties to Atlético is seen as critical to unlocking negotiations between the two clubs.
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Barcelona want the deal concluded before Álvarez begins his World Cup campaign with Argentina on June 17 against Algeria, fearing his value could rise if he shines on the global stage.
READ ALSO: Anthony Gordon prioritizes Barcelona move
Both Barça and Atlético are said to want clarity quickly, though the Madrid club are holding firm on a valuation closer to €150M.
Álvarez, who previously played for Manchester City, has told those close to him that while he is content at Atlético, he would prefer a switch to the Camp Nou. He has also been linked with Arsenal and PSG, but Barcelona remain his priority.
The Catalan giants’ aggressive transfer activity comes as their financial restrictions ease. La Liga is expected to allow Barça to return to the 1:1 spending rule, meaning funds from player sales and wage savings can be reinvested directly.
The departures of Marc‑André ter Stegen at the end of his contract and the expected sale of Ansu Fati are expected to free up resources. Still, questions remain over how Barcelona can afford two major signings worth a combined €180M.
President Joan Laporta may need to activate further financial levers to ensure compliance with league rules.
If successful, Álvarez’s arrival would reshape Barcelona’s attack following the exit of Robert Lewandowski. It would also mark a rare direct transfer between two La Liga rivals, adding political sensitivity to the negotiations.
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For Álvarez, the move represents a chance to step into a starring role at Camp Nou and continue his rise as one of Argentina’s leading forwards.
While for the club, it is a statement of intent, despite financial challenges, they are determined to rebuild with marquee signings.
