Barcelona hold talks over Lautaro Martinez as alternative to Atletico’s Julian Alvarez

Barcelona have opened discussions with the representative of Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez as they assess an alternative to their preferred target, Atletico de Madrid forward Julian Alvarez.

The Catalan club are not certain they will be able to complete a deal for Julian Alvarez during the current transfer window and have begun examining other options. According to Gerard Romero, a journalist with close links to Barcelona, sporting director Deco has already met Alejandro Camano, Martinez’s agent.

The meeting took place last week and focused on the Argentina international’s situation and future at Inter Milan. It indicates that Barcelona are actively preparing for the possibility that negotiations for Julian Alvarez may not succeed.

Julian Alvarez remains the club’s first choice. However, the difficulty and expected cost of reaching an agreement for the Atletico de Madrid forward have encouraged Barcelona to consider alternatives.

Lautaro Martinez is now regarded as one of the leading options under consideration if the club cannot secure Julian Alvarez. Deco and Barcelona manager Hansi Flick are looking to bring in a high-level striker, and Martinez is viewed as a particularly attractive solution.

The Argentina international is 28 and has been monitored by Barcelona for several years. He continues to hold considerable appeal in Catalonia, particularly because of his finishing ability and his contribution to the wider attacking game.

Martinez is also the captain of the Italian club, making his position and future an important part of any potential discussions. Barcelona’s meeting with his agent does not mean a deal has been agreed, but it shows the club are assessing the possibility of moving for him.

The club’s interest in Julian Alvarez has therefore not disappeared, with the Atletico forward still at the top of their transfer priorities. The approach regarding Martinez instead reflects Barcelona’s attempt to keep another prominent attacking option available while the main negotiations remain difficult.

Deco’s contact with Camano gives Barcelona a clearer understanding of Martinez’s circumstances and allows the club to evaluate whether the Inter Milan striker could become a realistic alternative. For now, the forward’s qualities continue to make him a strong candidate in the club’s search for an elite attacker.