Barcelona Considers Dusan Vlahovic as Striker Option if Julian Alvarez is Unreachable
Barcelona is reportedly assessing its options for a new No. 9 striker following Robert Lewandowski's departure last season. Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid is considered the club's primary target, but a move for him is expected to be financially challenging and difficult to secure. Should the acquisition of Alvarez prove unfeasible, Dusan Vlahovic has reportedly been offered to Barcelona as a potential free agent alternative. While not a priority, Vlahovic is being considered as a contingency plan, though his reported salary demands of around €8 million per season for at least two years present a significant obstacle.
Barcelona is in the process of identifying a new striker for the upcoming season, following Robert Lewandowski's exit at the end of the previous season. Lewandowski held the No. 9 jersey for four seasons, playing a key role in making the Catalan club competitive.
Manager Hansi Flick is reportedly seeking a No. 9 to lead the club into a new era, with Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez identified as the primary target. However, acquiring Alvarez is anticipated to be a difficult process due to Atletico Madrid's stance and the substantial financial investment required.
According to SPORT, Dusan Vlahovic has been offered to Barcelona as a free agent option. Vlahovic is reportedly unlikely to renew his contract with his current Italian club and is said to desire a move to Barcelona. His reported demands include a salary of approximately €8 million per season over at least two years, figures that are currently considered a significant obstacle for the Catalan club.
Barcelona is reportedly treating Vlahovic more as a contingency plan rather than a priority. Julian Alvarez remains the preferred target, valued for his comprehensive abilities both with and without the ball, aligning with Hansi Flick’s project. Vlahovic, while considered a good enough squad player, is not seen at the same level as Alvarez.
A realistic move for Vlahovic would likely only occur if Barcelona is unable to secure its primary targets and if the Serbian agrees to a wage structure within the club's financial capabilities. The club already has Ferran Torres, who reportedly faces similar inconsistency issues. It remains to be seen whom Barcelona will ultimately sign as their new striker in the coming weeks.
(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)
