Joan Laporta wants Julian Alvarez as Lewandowski’s successor at Barcelona – reports

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed the club’s interest in signing Argentine striker Julián Álvarez as a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Speaking to *Cadena SER*,

Laporta revealed that the club is targeting the Atlético Madrid forward for the 2026–27 season. Álvarez, 25, has enjoyed a stellar debut season at Atlético, scoring 29 goals and establishing himself as one of La Liga’s most lethal attackers.

His performances have drawn attention from several top European clubs, but Barcelona sees him as the ideal candidate to eventually take over Lewandowski’s role. However, securing Álvarez won’t be easy. His release clause is set at a staggering €500 million,

and Atlético president Enrique Cerezo has repeatedly stated that the player is not for sale. This presents a major financial hurdle for Barcelona, given their well-documented economic challenges. Despite the obstacles, Laporta remains confident.

He believes that with improved revenue streams and careful financial planning, the club can structure a deal within their means. Álvarez’s age, versatility, and playing style make him a perfect fit for Barcelona’s system, reinforcing the club’s long-term vision.

Barcelona’s sporting department views Álvarez as more than just a goalscorer—his work rate, creativity, and ability to link play align with the club’s philosophy. The Catalans are prepared to monitor his progress closely before making a formal move in the coming transfer windows. Lewandowski,

now 36, remains a key figure for Barcelona, but the club is already planning for the future. Álvarez’s potential arrival would ensure a smooth transition, maintaining the team’s attacking prowess as the Polish striker’s career winds down. Atlético,

however, has no intention of letting their star man leave easily. The club sees Álvarez as a cornerstone of their project and will resist any attempts to lure him away, especially to a direct rival like Barcelona. Laporta’s public admission of interest could be a strategic move to unsettle Atlético or signal Barcelona’s ambition to fans.

Either way, negotiations—if they materialize—will be complex and could involve player exchanges or staggered payments to meet financial regulations. For now, Álvarez remains focused on his current club, but the speculation surrounding his future is set to intensify. Barcelona’s pursuit will depend heavily on their ability to stabilize finances and convince Atlético to negotiate.

Should the transfer materialize, it would mark a major coup for Laporta and Barcelona, securing a world-class striker to lead their attack for years to come. Until then, the club will continue scouting alternatives while working behind the scenes to make the deal happen.