Barcelona shift tactics as Alvarez saga stalls amid financial caution

Barcelona enter the final days of the transfer window with a revised approach, having shifted from a hunt for a new striker to the possibility of closing the market without a major forward. Sem Alvarez, the only exception remains Julián Álvarez, but Atlético de Madrid’s unwillingness to negotiate has stalled the deal.

Financial caution reshapes transfer plan

According to , the Blaugrana board prefers to preserve resources and keep a financial margin for January, when it can assess the need for a centre‑forward more calmly. The decision is reinforced by the start of the season, with Hansi Flick satisfied after two LaLiga rounds in which Barcelona beat Elche and Athletic Bilbao, scored seven goals and kept a clean sheet. Com Raphinha operating as a false nine, he has already netted three times, and fellow forward Fermín López also contributes three goals. Thus, Barcelona are prepared to finish the window without a marquee striker, leaving the option to reassess the need in January.

Egyptian youngster offers internal solution

While the market stalls, Barcelona also looks inward, and 18‑year‑old Egyptian forward Hamza Abdelkarim emerged as the pre‑season top scorer. He did not feature in the first two LaLiga matches, but the technical commission continues to trust the youngster.

Consolidarse under Flick as Barcelona adds Gordon and Rodri

The club will revisit its striker assessment in January, weighing offensive output, possible injuries and which forwards become available. Potential sales of Casado, expected to bring between 25 and 30 million euros, and Héctor Fort, valued at about 15 million euros, could free up funds. A defensive reshuffle is also being discussed, with Ronald Araújo’s loan to Liverpool and the likely departure of Álvaro Cortés reducing options, although Flick still counts on Cubarsi, Gerard Martín, Koundé, Christensen and Eric García. Any acquisition will have to respect the club’s financial‑fair‑play constraints.