Finally! Barcelona make final decision on Julián Álvarez
Barcelona appear ready to put one of their biggest transfer plans on ice.
Details: According to El Nacional, Barcelona are stepping back from a January move for Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, even though sporting director Deco had made significant progress with the player regarding a potential winter transfer. The situation has changed because of the current performance of the Catalans' attack. Lamine Yamal and Raphinha have become key figures in a productive frontline, and the club no longer considers another major attacking signing to be essential.
The report stresses that Barcelona's opinion of Álvarez himself has not changed. The club still rate the Argentine forward very highly, while the work previously carried out by Deco with the player's camp has not been completely discarded. However, the Catalans currently have no intention of putting pressure on Atlético Madrid in an attempt to force through a deal in January.
If circumstances change in the future, Álvarez could once again become a major target. For now, Barcelona believe their current attacking options allow them to avoid an enormous winter investment and preserve financial resources for other areas of the squad. Raphinha's ability to operate centrally and his understanding with Lamine Yamal have played an important role in that change of thinking.
It is worth noting that Julián Álvarez remains under contract with Atlético Madrid until June 2030. Transfermarkt currently estimates the market value of the Argentine forward at €100 million.
Reminder: "I have nothing to say" — Simeone shuts down Julián Álvarez question
Steven Perez
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