Barcelona are reportedly looking at alternative strikers, including Sporting CP's Luis Suarez, as Atletico Madrid continue to insist Julian Alvarez is not for sale. This could be good news for Arsenal, who are keen to strengthen their attack.
Barcelona's striker shortlist
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona's shortlist includes Sporting CP forward Luis Suarez, who replaced Viktor Gyokeres after his move to Arsenal last summer. The Colombia international is said to have an €80million (£68.3m) release clause in his contract, though Barcelona will only consider a move from next week if the Alvarez deal remains off.
Alvarez's desire to leave
Alvarez, who reported back to Atletico Madrid this week after representing Argentina at the World Cup, has been Barcelona's top target all summer. The player has repeatedly voiced his desire to move to the Camp Nou.
"I don't think it's the right moment to talk, but I also don't want to hide. I try to be an honest person," the striker told ESPN. "I spoke with the people at [Atletico] who I needed to speak with. I think the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream."
Atletico's stance
However, Atletico continue to insist Alvarez is not for sale, especially not to a rival in LaLiga. Diego Simeone told reporters: "The situation is very clear. The club took a decision which Miguel Angel explained well. We are very happy with Julian. From the sporting side of things, we will help him keep growing and improving so that he can give us what he has given us over these two years at the club so far, which was a mountain of things."
With Ferran Torres set to join Paris Saint-Germain, Robert Lewandowski already gone, and Roony Bardghji successfully undergoing surgery for a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, Barcelona look short of options in attack. It remains to be seen if the door could yet open for Arsenal, with manager Mikel Arteta keen to add another dimension to his attack before the summer transfer window closes.
