According to SPORT, coach Xavi likes Man City’s Julian Alvarez so much that he wants to bring him to Barcelona in the future. However, Barcelona is expected to continue maintaining the current squad without making too many moves in the transfer market due to economic difficulties.
Alvarez is currently considered one of the most promising young strikers in the world. After making a name for himself at River Plate, he has continued to flourish since moving to Man City, although Erling Haaland’s shadow is still too big.
Alvarez has made 71 appearances for Man City in his 18 months at the Etihad so far. He scored 25 goals and had 17 assists, contributing to last season’s treble. He also has 28 caps for the Argentina national team and was an important part of last year’s World Cup winning squad, considered a descendant who could follow in Lionel Messi’s footsteps.
If he returns to Barca, coach Xavi probably wants Julian Alvarez to replace Robert Lewandowski – the 35-year-old striker. But the positions of these two players are quite different. Lewandowski is more of a predatory striker who likes to move around the penalty area. In contrast, Alvarez is a modern striker who can operate around the flanks if needed.
Therefore, Alvarez will be more suitable for Barcelona’s playing style because they have just recruited young striker Vitor Roque, who also possesses a modern and versatile playing style, capable of operating in many positions on the offensive line.
However, reaching an agreement with Man City could be a difficult matter for Barcelona. The Citizens do not want to lose such a potential star, or if they do, it must be an offer with a large price.