Barcelona are preparing a two-track striker plan, with Lautaro Martinez emerging as a prominent alternative if their preferred move for Julian Alvarez from Atletico de Madrid cannot be completed.

The Argentine forward, 26, remains Barcelona’s main attacking target, but negotiations with Atletico are not expected to be straightforward. According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona regard Alvarez as the ideal player to lead their attack in the coming years.

However, the player’s contractual situation and Atletico’s financial demands mean the Catalan club must consider other possibilities. Inter striker Lautaro Martinez, 28, is viewed as a strong alternative and has the approval of both sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick.

Martinez would become Barcelona’s fallback option if the club are unable to reach an agreement for Alvarez. His potential arrival would also represent a return to a long-standing transfer idea, rather than the pursuit of an entirely new name.

The Argentina international has previously been on Barcelona’s radar and his name has appeared repeatedly in the club’s plans. His profile is considered well suited to the team’s requirements, particularly because he can contribute beyond simply finishing chances in the penalty area.

Martinez is capable of linking play between the lines and helping to build attacks, while also offering a strong physical presence and the goal threat expected from a leading number nine. Those qualities make him an attractive option should the Alvarez deal prove too difficult to complete.

Alvarez remains first choice

Barcelona’s board, and Flick in particular, consider the signing of a top-class striker one of the squad’s highest priorities. Alvarez continues to lead their shortlist, with the club identifying him as the preferred candidate to take responsibility for the attack over the next several years.

The former Manchester City forward’s situation nevertheless creates uncertainty around any possible transfer. Barcelona must weigh Atletico’s demands while also taking account of the contractual circumstances surrounding the player, prompting them to prepare more than one route through the transfer market.

In that context, Martinez offers Barcelona what is described as a high-level guarantee should obstacles prevent them from securing the Atletico striker. The Inter forward’s previous links with the Catalan club and his ability to combine creativity with penalty-area effectiveness have strengthened his position as the leading alternative.

Barcelona are therefore continuing to work on several scenarios as the transfer window progresses. Their immediate objective remains to complete a deal for the new leader of their attack, with Alvarez still at the top of the list and Martinez retained as a credible option if negotiations for the first-choice target fail to produce an agreement.