Hansi Flick makes clear Barcelona request for Lewandowski’s long-term replacement
Hansi Flick has made it clear to the Barcelona hierarchy that Julian Alvarez is the only striker he wants this summer.
The latest revelation from the aforementioned outlet suggests the German coach has no interest in considering alternative centre-forwards despite uncertainty surrounding negotiations with Atletico Madrid.
It must be noted that the Barcelona transfer for Julian Alvarez has become one of the club’s biggest priorities during the summer window.
Although Joan Laporta recently admitted Barcelona would explore other options if talks stalled for too long, Flick’s position appears to be far more decisive, with the manager identifying the Argentina international as the ideal player to lead his attack.
Flick only wants Julian Alvarez
Flick has already communicated his preference internally and is fully committed to bringing Alvarez to Camp Nou.
The report also claims that the Barcelona manager has personally contacted the striker, while the club has already submitted an official offer to Atletico Madrid after Alvarez made his desire to leave public.
Speaking on the situation, Jordi Jota revealed Flick’s stance.
“Flick says he only wants Julian Alvarez. His centre-forward is the Argentine player. He wants him to be Barça’s ‘number 9’.”
Jota Jordi also explained why Barcelona’s need for a new striker has become even more urgent.
“Now that Lewandowski has left, Barça need a ‘number 9’ come what may, and there’s no better striker than Julian Alvarez. Whatever Flick says goes.”
Atletico are looking for replacements
While Atletico Madrid have publicly insisted Alvarez is not for sale, developments behind the scenes could eventually change the picture.
Jota Jordi claimed the Madrid-based club is already working on a replacement, with Real Sociedad captain Mikel Oyarzabal emerging as a player highly admired by Diego Simeone.
“I’ve been told that there’s a player Atletico Madrid are very keen on – Simeone in particular – and that there have already been talks.
“I’m told these talks have been quite positive, that they’re set to intensify from Monday onwards, and that the player in question is Oyarzabal.
“Simeone is smitten with him and he could be a replacement for both Julián and Griezmann,” Jordi Jota added.
If Atletico succeed in securing Oyarzabal, it could significantly alter the Barcelona offer for Julian Alvarez, potentially making negotiations easier during the remainder of the transfer window.
“The moment this goes ahead – and I’ve been assured it will – Julián’s situation will be resolved,” the journalist concluded.
