Barcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez is increasingly losing momentum, prompting the Catalan club to turn its attention towards another Argentine forward, Lautaro Martinez. With the transfer window approaching its final stages, Lautaro has emerged as a leading target as manager Hansi Flick looks to strengthen his attacking options.
Alvarez had been one of Barcelona’s principal targets from the outset. The Argentine forward is also understood to be interested in a move to the Catalan club. However, Atletico Madrid have remained unwilling to part with him, making negotiations increasingly difficult. With time running short, Barcelona are now understood to have significantly reduced their expectations of securing Alvarez.
According to Spanish media outlet El Chiringuito, Barcelona have already reached an agreement in principle with Lautaro over personal terms. The report claims that representatives of the forward have held talks with Barcelona’s sporting directors, with key elements of a potential contract discussed during the meeting. Sporting director Deco was also reportedly involved in the negotiations.
Barcelona are now preparing to make their first formal approach to Inter Milan for the Argentina international. An initial offer could be submitted within the next few hours, although it is not expected to reach €100 million.
The main obstacle remains Inter. The Italian club have made their position clear: they do not want to sell their captain. Lautaro is regarded as a central figure in Inter’s plans and is not considered a player who is readily available for transfer.
The timing makes the situation even more complicated. With only 10 days remaining before the transfer window closes, Inter would have limited time to identify and sign a suitable replacement if Lautaro were sold. That lack of time is likely to strengthen the Italian club’s resolve to retain their captain.
Despite those difficulties, Barcelona’s interest has not diminished. With Alvarez becoming increasingly difficult to acquire, Lautaro has moved towards the top of the club’s list of attacking targets. Barcelona are also monitoring other forwards as they assess their options before the transfer deadline.
Lautaro’s record at Inter helps explain his appeal. He has made 376 appearances for the Italian club, scoring 175 goals and providing 56 assists. His ability to contribute consistently in front of goal, combined with his experience of captaining a major European side, makes him an attractive option for Barcelona.
For Flick, Lautaro would represent a forward with considerable experience at the highest level and a proven record of producing goals. His leadership qualities could also add another dimension to an attacking group that Barcelona are seeking to strengthen.
Yet an agreement with the player would only solve part of the problem. Even if the reported understanding over personal terms is confirmed, Barcelona must still convince Inter to negotiate. With the Italian club reluctant to sell and the transfer deadline approaching rapidly, completing the deal remains far from straightforward.
Barcelona’s next move will therefore be crucial. An official offer will test whether Inter’s firm stance can be softened, while the size and structure of any proposal could determine whether negotiations progress. For now, Lautaro appears to be Barcelona’s preferred alternative to Alvarez, but turning that interest into a completed transfer remains a considerable challenge.
