Atlético de Madrid wants two Barça players in exchange for Julián Álvarez
FC Barcelona has reignited its activity in the transfer market with one clear goal — to sign a complete striker. Inside the club’s offices, all attention is focused on one player: Julián Álvarez. The Argentine forward, currently playing for Atlético Madrid, has become the top target for manager Hansi Flick, who sees him as the perfect fit for his new project — young, talented, hardworking, and hungry for success.

However, bringing Álvarez to Camp Nou will not be an easy task. Atlético Madrid values him highly and considers him one of their most important players. To overcome this obstacle, Barça is reportedly exploring a bold plan — a player swap deal that could make the signing possible without paying a massive transfer fee.
According to reports from Don Balón, Barcelona’s sporting directors are ready to include two big names in the offer — Robert Lewandowski and Gavi. Both are key figures in the current Barça team, though at very different stages in their careers.
For Atlético Madrid, such an offer would be tempting. Manager Diego Simeone is said to be looking for an experienced striker to maintain the team’s attacking threat and a strong, physical midfielder to reinforce the middle of the park. Both Lewandowski and Gavi fit that description perfectly.
In Lewandowski’s case, the move is seen as part of a natural transition. The Polish striker, who is under contract with Barça until 2026, is nearing the end of his career at 38 years old. The club has reportedly decided not to renew his deal, and his departure is already being discussed internally. Atlético Madrid could offer him a fresh challenge — and a chance to follow in the footsteps of David Villa and Luis Suárez, two former Barcelona forwards who went on to win La Liga titles under Simeone.
Lewandowski’s representatives are aware that Barcelona wants to rejuvenate the squad’s attack. For that reason, a move could suit both sides — allowing Barça to refresh its frontline while giving Lewandowski one final big stage.
The inclusion of Gavi in the potential deal has surprised many. The 21-year-old midfielder is one of the club’s most beloved players, known for his fighting spirit and connection with the fans. However, a series of injuries has slowed his development, and his role under Flick may not be as crucial as before.
At Atlético Madrid, Gavi is seen as an ideal fit for Simeone’s demanding system — aggressive, intense, and full of energy. While Barcelona does not want to lose him, the club may consider including him in the deal if it becomes the key to securing Julián Álvarez.
If the deal goes through, it would be one of the most talked-about transfers in recent years — a bold move both strategically and symbolically. Barcelona’s management believes Álvarez is the right player to lead their attacking rebuild starting in 2026. His pressing ability, movement off the ball, and clinical finishing make him the perfect modern striker for Flick’s system.
Sources close to the Argentine forward say that Álvarez has always dreamed of playing for Barcelona. Those around him reportedly admire Flick’s attacking approach and the chance to play alongside young stars like Lamine Yamal and Pedri.
At Camp Nou, there is a sense of determination to make the transfer happen. Although the club’s financial situation makes a full cash deal impossible, they believe that a high-profile swap could open the door to one of the most unexpected transfers of the upcoming window.
A swap involving Barcelona and Atlético Madrid would not only reshape both teams’ futures but could also change the competitive balance in La Liga. And if all goes as planned, Julián Álvarez might soon become Barcelona’s new number 9 — in exchange for two players who helped define the club’s recent history…CONTINUE MORE READING>>>