FC Barcelona is still searching for a new striker after Robert Lewandowski's departure, and Spanish media report Lautaro Martinez has emerged as a possible plan B behind primary target Julian Alvarez.
Mundo Deportivo said Hansi Flick desperately needs goals at Barcelona, pointing to the club's first three matches this season, against Birmingham City, Nottingham Forest and Udinese, two of which lasted only 45 minutes, as proof goals were needed. The outlet said the goal drought coincides with the exit of Lewandowski, who averaged around 30 goals a season across four years at Barcelona, and the possible departure of Ferran Torres, who has already told the club he intends to move to Paris Saint-Germain. Signing Alvarez or activating a plan B has become urgent, the outlet said.
Alvarez remains the priority
Atletico Madrid do not intend to easily let Alvarez join a league rival, and it remains unclear whether Barcelona can complete the signing. Catalan outlet Sport reported that Flick needs a striker following Lewandowski's exit and Torres' likely departure, and that Lautaro Martinez emerges as an option if the Alvarez deal stays blocked. El Desmarque reported the Inter striker is gaining strength as a possible plan B that Barcelona would activate if there is no progress with Alvarez in the coming days. Both sporting director Deco and Flick reportedly want the Argentine, whose profile is said to match Barcelona's needs.
Lautaro's Inter contract
Signing Lautaro would not be simple either. He is under contract with Inter until June 2029 and has become one of the Italian club's legends. Inter president Giuseppe Marotta and Lautaro himself publicly ruled out a departure in May last year, when Inter denied any negotiations with Barcelona and Lautaro said he wanted to finish his career in Milan. Sport, citing La Gazzetta dello Sport, reported Inter would sell him for around 120 million euros.
Lautaro's recent form
Last season Lautaro scored 17 goals and added six assists in 30 Serie A matches, plus four goals in eight Champions League appearances and one in the Coppa Italia. At the 2026 World Cup he scored three goals and was a key figure for Argentina, who reached the final before losing to Spain. Sport said Alvarez remains Barcelona's priority, and the club hopes his talks with coach Diego Simeone and Atletico will change the situation.
