Mansion Sports – FC Barcelona have made Lautaro Martínez their primary target for the forward position after Atlético Madrid definitively refused to negotiate Julián Álvarez’s departure, according to Gerard Romero on Jijantes.

Deco has reportedly shifted his attention to the Inter Milan captain, with the Argentine forward said to be open to a move to Camp Nou.

Why Barcelona Have Turned Away from Julián Álvarez

Barcelona had previously attempted to find a formula to sign Álvarez from Atlético, but the club’s definitive stance has closed the door on that possibility.

With Álvarez no longer an option, Deco is exploring alternatives to strengthen the attack.

Lautaro now occupies the position previously held by Álvarez on Barcelona’s target list, with the Inter forward emerging as the Catalan club’s primary choice.

How Much Would It Cost to Sign Lautaro?

Lautaro is under contract with Inter Milan until 2029 and does not have a release clause, meaning any agreement would have to be negotiated directly with the Serie A club rather than activated through the payment of a predetermined fee.

The figure being discussed for a potential departure is around €85 million, a substantial amount but significantly lower than the cost Barcelona would have to incur to pursue Álvarez.

Barcelona do not want another transfer operation to develop into a financial problem after making a major investment in Rodri.

Determining how much funding can be allocated to a forward will be crucial to Deco’s next move, as Barcelona seek to find a formula that can convince Inter without placing excessive pressure on the club’s finances.

What Lautaro Would Add to Flick’s Attack

The sporting considerations are quite clear. Hansi Flick needs a forward capable of operating inside the penalty area while also contributing to pressing and combinations in possession.

Lautaro can position himself between the centre-backs, attack spaces, and drop deeper to participate in the build-up before making runs toward goal again.

His arrival would open up various attacking combinations with Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon, and Barcelona’s other forwards.

Lautaro has also been one of Inter’s leaders for many years and is accustomed to playing on the biggest stages, giving him the profile of a player ready to take on an important role in Flick’s team.

Gyökeres Remains Under Consideration

Viktor Gyökeres remains another option for Barcelona, although his situation depends on Arsenal first finding a forward capable of replacing the Swedish player before seriously considering negotiations over his departure. This puts the timing of a potential Gyökeres transfer beyond Barcelona’s control.

For now, the situation has become clearer. Álvarez is no longer on the list after Atlético refused to negotiate his departure, Gyökeres remains an alternative, and Lautaro Martínez has emerged as the primary target to strengthen Barcelona’s attack.