Barcelona’s summer striker search may end with no signing

Barcelona are preparing to keep their current attacking options rather than sign another striker this summer, after Atletico de Madrid maintained their refusal to sell Julian Alvarez to the Catalan club.

Atletico remain firm despite the difficult situation surrounding Alvarez, who was subjected to heavy criticism from supporters during the club’s match against Villarreal. The Madrid club are willing to consider a sale to Arsenal, but not to Barcelona, who now believe they will be unable to complete a deal for the Argentina forward during this transfer window.

That stance had been expected for some time because of Atletico’s strong position. Alvarez has attempted to push for a move himself, having said publicly during the World Cup that a transfer would be the best option for him.

According to Marca, Barcelona have now settled on their alternative plan after considerable difficulty in pursuing Alvarez: if he does not arrive, there will be no replacement signing.

Head coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco have decided against bringing in another forward unless an exceptional opportunity emerges in the final stages of the market. With only one week remaining before the transfer window closes, Barcelona officials accept that such an opportunity is unlikely, particularly because any available player would need to be of a high standard.

The club’s sporting department does not want to sign an average player simply to strengthen the squad. If Barcelona do recruit, it must be a top-level striker. However, it would be extremely difficult for another club to sell one of its leading players at this stage, given the limited time left to find a replacement.

For that reason, Barcelona are expected to continue with their existing squad.

Flick’s assessment of his attacking resources during pre-season and in the opening competitive fixture against Elche has been central to the decision. The German is satisfied with the options available to him and believes several players can operate in different positions across the forward line.

Raphinha demonstrated that flexibility in the match against Elche, where he produced an outstanding performance after being used as the central striker. Barcelona have other players who can also fill that role.

Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, despite primarily being wingers, are capable of playing through the middle. Adeyemi had already been used in that position by Flick during pre-season.

Dani Olmo is another option for the centre-forward role. Barcelona’s younger players have also made a positive impression, with Hamza Abdelkarim finishing pre-season as the team’s leading scorer and showing promising potential. Bissouma, despite receiving limited playing time, has also displayed a notable goalscoring instinct.

The report said fans could discuss the latest developments in greater depth on the Kooora forums.

Flick is content with the squad at his disposal and is therefore not actively seeking a new striker. If the current plan proves unsuccessful, Barcelona retain the option of signing a forward when the transfer market reopens in January.