Barcelona may shelve Alvarez move as Flick seeks new partner for Cubarsi

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick believes Julian Alvarez would significantly strengthen his attack, but the German is prepared to abandon a move for the Argentina forward because he sees another transfer as a higher priority.

Flick wants Barcelona to sign a centre-back capable of forming a strong partnership with Pau Cubarsi. The club could fund that purchase by selling left-back Alejandro Balde, whose departure is also viewed favourably by the manager.

Barcelona’s need to recruit Julian Alvarez has become less urgent because of Raphinha’s performances in an advanced attacking role and the arrival of Gabriel Jesus.

Reports previously suggested Barcelona would make another attempt to sign Alvarez during the winter transfer window. Atletico did not allow the Argentina international to leave in the summer.