Deco Declares Julián Álvarez Chase Over For Barcelona

Deco Closes the Door

Barcelona sporting director Deco has confirmed that the club's pursuit of Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez is over. The Spanish giants spent the summer trying to secure the forward, but their efforts ultimately failed.

Deco spoke about the situation at the Portugal Football Summit this week. He made it clear that the club is now focused on other options. "Julián Álvarez is the past," Deco said. "Barcelona now have to look forward. It wasn't possible in the end. We made an offer. Atlético said they would not transfer him and we had to look for other solutions."

Barcelona made a massive bid of over 100 million euros during the summer transfer window. However, their LaLiga rivals refused to enter negotiations.

LaLiga Rules Limit January Plans

Even if Barcelona wanted to try again in January, their financial situation makes a deal highly unlikely. Club treasurer Ferran Olivé explained that LaLiga spending rules would force the club to sell players before they could bring in someone like Álvarez.

Olivé stated that the club's financial situation is positive, which allows for some activity. However, they only have a small spending cap excess of around 3 to 4 million euros. That amount only allows for a small deal.

When asked if signing the Argentine striker was possible, Olivé admitted that such a move would not fit into their current budget. For any major signing to arrive, other players would have to leave first.

Raphinha Shines in New Role

The need for a new striker has also decreased because of the team's current form. After failing to land Álvarez, Barcelona signed Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal late in the summer.

However, it is Raphinha who has taken over the central striking duties. Following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, the Brazilian winger was moved into the number nine role.

The change has worked incredibly well. Raphinha has already scored 14 goals in just eight appearances this season, easing the pressure on the club to find a new goalscorer in the winter market.

Tough Times in Madrid

Meanwhile, Álvarez faces a difficult period at Atlético Madrid. The 26 year old forward publicly expressed his desire to leave the club during the summer, which angered local fans.

Supporters jeered him during a home match against Villarreal in August. Since joining from Manchester City in 2024, he has seen his playing time drop. He has made only four appearances this season, starting just one game.