Barcelona Abandons Gyökeres Pursuit and Sets Sights on Julián Álvarez as Long-Term Lewandowski Successor

FC Barcelona has officially pulled out of the race to sign Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres, who had been strongly linked with a move to the Camp Nou in recent months. Despite early interest, the Catalan club has made it clear they will not engage in a bidding war for the forward, especially now that he is on the verge of joining Arsenal.

Club president Joan Laporta has emphasized that Barcelona is not in a position to make a major investment in the striker position this summer. This statement reflects a strategic shift in the club’s transfer policy, with the focus now on long-term planning rather than short-term signings. The idea is to wait until 2026—when Robert Lewandowski’s contract expires—before committing to a marquee signing up front.

Financial constraints, particularly those imposed by La Liga’s Financial Fair Play regulations, have played a major role in shaping this decision. Instead of spending big on a new No. 9 now, the club intends to redirect resources toward reinforcing other critical areas, such as center-back, right-back, and possibly the goalkeeper position, especially with doubts surrounding the future of Wojciech Szczęsny.

But this doesn’t mean Barcelona lacks a clear long-term vision for their forward line. On the contrary, Laporta and his sporting department already have a name in mind: Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward is viewed as the ideal successor to Lewandowski and is at the center of Barça’s plans for the future of their attack.

Currently playing for Atlético Madrid following his move from Manchester City, Álvarez has caught Barcelona’s attention with his tireless work ethic, clinical finishing, and smooth adaptation to La Liga. His ability to fit into different tactical systems and his aggressive pressing make him a natural fit for Barcelona’s high-possession, high-intensity style.

At just 25 years old, Álvarez offers a rare blend of youth, experience, and potential. He is seen as a long-term solution—someone who can consistently deliver goals while also offering leadership in the final third. Laporta reportedly believes Álvarez has the tools to become the new anchor of Barça’s attack in the years to come.

His technical skills, football intelligence, and energetic style of play have all the makings of a classic Barcelona forward. Álvarez is not just a goal scorer; he’s a dynamic player who contributes to the build-up and defensive phases—a profile that fits seamlessly into the Blaugrana’s DNA.

For now, Robert Lewandowski remains the club’s main striker and will continue to lead the line, supported by Ferran Torres and other internal options. But make no mistake—the foundation for a generational handover is already being laid. Julián Álvarez has become the centerpiece of Barcelona’s future transfer blueprint.

This move also signals a new era of prudence and planning at Camp Nou. After years marked by reactive decisions and costly missteps, Barcelona is now taking a more calculated approach, both on the pitch and financially. Álvarez is not just a signing for the future—he represents a new way of thinking.

While fans may need to wait a little longer to welcome a new star striker, everything suggests that the wait will be worth it. Julián Álvarez could very well not only fill the void Lewandowski will eventually leave but also lead the club into a new golden era.