According to Eldesmarque, Barcelona still considers Julián Álvarez as their top target for striker reinforcements, but due to Atlético Madrid's tough stance, the deal is becoming increasingly difficult. Lautaro has begun to enter Barcelona's alternative shortlist.

Barcelona's sporting director Deco still views Julián Álvarez as an absolute priority, but the club is increasingly aware that convincing Atlético to release him will not be easy, as the Rojiblancos' position is a complete refusal.

Flick insists that after Lewandowski's departure and Ferran Torres's likely exit, the team must sign a striker, otherwise there will be no out-and-out center forward in the squad. Barcelona's current idea is still to continue pursuing Julián, but the situation with the Argentine striker is complicated. Although he himself wishes to join Barcelona, he returned to Atlético training this Monday.

David Ibáñez, ElDesmarque's correspondent in Barcelona, stated on Monday's program that Barcelona is still waiting for Álvarez because he is the striker the team most desires; the club believes that this week could be crucial, as he might request to leave Atlético for Barcelona after communicating with Simeone and the sporting department.

However, the reporter also added that if there is still no progress in the "Julián case" next week, Barcelona will have to activate alternative plans, because Flick needs a striker. According to information obtained by ElDesmarque, Lautaro's name has started to carry significant weight. The Internazionale striker is highly admired by both Flick and Deco.

Lautaro is about to turn 29 and has a contract with Internazionale until 2029, so his departure will also not be easy to manage. According to Transfermarkt data, his market value is 85 million euros, and with the Serie A season starting, Inter will not easily let him leave.

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