Hansi Flick has finally revealed to Deco his preferred choice to lead Barcelona’s striking options next season amid a busy transfer window with several high-profile names linked to the club.

Hansi Flick has finally revealed to Deco his preferred choice to lead Barcelona’s striking options next season amid a busy transfer window with several high-profile names linked to the club.

Despite interest in players like Erling Haaland, Marcus Rashford, Nico Williams, Alexander Isak, Rafael Leão, Jeremy Doku, and others, Flick has made it clear that Julián Álvarez is his top target to spearhead Barcelona’s attack[3][4][6].

Flick expressed strong confidence in Álvarez’s ability, stating, “He is the player I truly want. I’m certain he can light up the Spanish league, and both the board and I are fully committed to making sure we sign him.” This endorsement comes as Barcelona looks to build a new attacking core following the departure or uncertain futures of several forwards[3].

Julián Álvarez, currently with Atlético Madrid and a World Cup winner with Argentina, is viewed as the ideal long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. His youth, goal-scoring instinct, and playmaking qualities fit perfectly with Barcelona’s style under Flick’s guidance.

Although Atlético has set a high release clause of around €150 million, Barcelona’s president Joan Laporta and Flick are reportedly ready to pursue the signing aggressively, possibly aiming for a 2026 arrival but with hopes to accelerate the deal if finances allow[3].

Other names remain in the mix, with Barcelona also interested in Marcus Rashford, who is reportedly willing to reduce his wages to facilitate a move, and players like Nico Williams and Ademola Lookman have been considered as alternatives to Luis Diaz.

However, Flick’s preference for Álvarez signals a clear strategic direction toward youth and potential rather than just marquee signings[2][4].

Meanwhile, Erling Haaland remains a coveted target but faces financial and contractual challenges that may delay or complicate a move to Barcelona. Flick’s focus on Álvarez suggests a pragmatic approach to strengthening the attack within the club’s current constraints[6].

In summary, amid a crowded field of potential signings, Hansi Flick has decisively chosen Julián Álvarez as the player to lead Barcelona’s frontline next season, with full backing from the club’s board to secure his signature and build the future of Barça’s attack around him[3].