Barcelona has refuted reports connecting them with Sporting Lisbon forward Luis Suarez. Suarez had been suggested as a potential alternative if the club’s pursuit of Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez did not materialise. Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano had previously indicated that the 28-year-old was among Barcelona’s alternative options if the deal for Alvarez stalled.
However, sources within the Catalan club have denied this to Spanish newspaper “Mundo Deportivo.” These sources assert that Barcelona’s primary focus remains firmly on the Argentine international at Atletico. Alvarez himself is reportedly keen on a move to Camp Nou, and Barcelona is equally eager to secure his services. He is considered the top choice for both manager Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco.
Alvarez Pursuit Continues Amid Alternatives
Barcelona’s management has indicated that alternative options would only be explored if their efforts to sign Alvarez face significant delays, as the club cannot afford an indefinite wait. Despite this, they maintain that Luis Suarez is not among the potential alternatives being considered.
Meanwhile, Barcelona has reportedly made contact with the representatives of another striker, Villarreal’s Georges Mikautadze, as a ‘Plan B’ should the pursuit of Alvarez ultimately fail. According to local media in the Valencia region, Mikautadze has already agreed to join the Catalans after Deco initiated discussions with his representatives. The Georgian forward aligns with the profile of attacker Barcelona is seeking, particularly following Robert Lewandowski’s departure to the Chicago Fire and the anticipated exit of Ferran Torres.
Paris Saint-Germain is reportedly prepared to pay €50 million in fixed fees, along with an additional €5 million in bonuses, for Ferran Torres. This potential transfer would allow Barcelona to recoup the full €55 million they had agreed to pay Manchester City for the player. Mikautadze is expected to be a more economical acquisition compared to Julian Alvarez.
Manager Flick Pushes for Alvarez Deal
Villarreal had acquired Mikautadze from Lyon for €31 million plus an additional €5 million in variables in September 2025. While Mikautadze’s value is believed to have increased, with an asking price from Villarreal reportedly between €60 million and €65 million, Alvarez remains the top priority for Deco and Hansi Flick, with Mikautadze seen as a secondary option.
Barcelona remains committed to securing Alvarez. Some supporters have questioned when the club might shift its focus from Alvarez. Significant developments in the transfer saga were anticipated after Alvarez returned for pre-season training and held discussions with Atletico manager Diego Simeone. However, comments from Simeone suggest that Atletico Madrid is resolute in its decision not to sell Alvarez to Barcelona. Other names, such as Lautaro Martinez, have also emerged as potential alternatives alongside Mikautadze.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has reportedly urged the club to make a final push to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid. Despite continuous links with the Argentina international throughout the summer, Atletico remains firm that Alvarez is not for sale and will stay with the club. According to Jijantes, Flick has specifically requested that Barcelona not abandon their efforts for Alvarez and has asked for one last attempt to secure the Argentina international.
Alvarez, who recently returned to Atletico after his involvement in the World Cup, has reportedly informed manager Diego Simeone of his desire to move to Barcelona. The striker is scheduled to meet with Atletico chief Gil Marin next week to discuss his future. Marin has previously accused Barcelona of “disrespecting his club” and has consistently stated his intention not to sell the forward.
Source: goal.com
