Barcelona still waiting out for top attacking target despite exploring other options

Signing a number nine is undoubtedly Barcelona’s biggest priority this summer, as the club still look for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.

Julian Alvarez has long been identified as the priority, though Atletico Madrid’s refusal to negotiate has left the operation stuck in limbo for months now.

With the new season just around the corner, time is running out for Barcelona, especially knowing that Alvarez must finalise his future before he returns to training on August 10.

Barcelona remain in waiting mode

Barcelona ready to play the waiting game for Alvarez. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona have not given up on Alvarez and are simply waiting for a positive development, even as they continue to assess other options in the market.

The club have not informed the player, his representatives, or Atletico that they have withdrawn their offer and moved on to alternative targets. No fresh messages have been exchanged, and nothing has changed on that front.

Although the Catalans have looked alternatives, they haven’t taken any definitive step towards finding someone new.

The club are content to wait patiently rather than force the issue or walk away from a deal they still believe can happen.

Ferran Torres could hold the key

Will Barcelona’s patience pay off in the Alvarez saga? (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

While the Alvarez saga drags on, Ferran Torres is increasingly viewed as central to how Barcelona’s attack shapes up for the season ahead.

With the club unwilling to go beyond their €100 million offer for Alvarez, retaining Ferran becomes even more important, particularly given his ability to operate through the middle when required.

Having just inspired Spain to World Cup glory with the winning goal in the final, his value to Hansi Flick’s side has never been higher.

Should the Alvarez pursuit stall completely, Ferran’s role as a genuine attacking outlet, alongside Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi and Raphinha would become even more pivotal.

PSG, though, are still in the chase and it won’t be easy to fend off the European champions, although the club are yet to make any official offer for the Spanish international.