Barcelona’s hopes of signing Julián Alvarez are fading, prompting the Catalan club to turn its attention to another Argentine star. With the need to strengthen their attack, Barcelona have reportedly made Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martínez their new priority under manager Hansi Flick.
Alvarez had been Barcelona’s main target from the beginning, and the Argentine forward was reportedly keen on joining the club. However, Atletico Madrid have been unwilling to let him leave. With time running out in the transfer window, Barcelona are now increasingly pessimistic about their chances of completing a deal for Alvarez.
According to Spanish outlet *El Chiringuito*, Barcelona have already reached a preliminary agreement with Lautaro over personal terms. Following a meeting between his representatives and Barcelona’s sporting directors, the terms of a potential contract are reportedly close to being finalized. Barcelona sporting director Deco was also present at the meeting.
Barcelona are now preparing to make their first official offer to Inter Milan for Lautaro. The proposal could reportedly be submitted within the next few hours. However, it is not expected to reach €100 million.
The biggest obstacle for Barcelona will be convincing Inter Milan to sell their captain. The Italian club’s position is clear: they do not want to part ways with Lautaro, who is considered a key player and effectively off-limits in the transfer market.
Time is also working against Barcelona. With only 10 days remaining before the transfer window closes, Inter would have little time to find a replacement if they agreed to sell Lautaro. As a result, the chances of the Argentine striker actually moving to Barcelona remain relatively low.
Nevertheless, Barcelona’s interest has not diminished. With Alvarez becoming increasingly difficult to sign, Lautaro has emerged as one of the club’s top attacking targets. The Catalan side is also keeping an eye on several other forwards as alternative options.
Lautaro has scored 175 goals and provided 56 assists in 376 appearances for Inter. His consistency in front of goal, combined with his leadership as club captain, makes him an attractive option for Barcelona. However, even if an agreement on personal terms has been reached, persuading Inter Milan to approve the transfer remains Barcelona’s biggest challenge.
