Barcelona is already thinking about the future. Without looking at the present, the board led by Joan Laporta has started to design an ambitious plan for the 2026 summer transfer market. The goal is clear: strengthen the backbone of the team and lay the foundations for a new winning cycle.
Bastoni, the defensive bet
The Barça defense needs a boost. Íñigo Martínez's departure to Arabia left a significant gap. Although Ronald Araújo and Andreas Christensen have filled that space, Hansi Flick is still looking for a natural profile for the left side of the backline.
This is where Alessandro Bastoni comes in. The Italian center-back, with more than 200 matches in Serie A and a European champion with Italy, has established himself as one of the most sought-after left-footed players on the continent. His ability to lead the defense and handle the ball makes him ideal to accompany Pau Cubarsí and other young talents.
According to various sources, Barça would be willing to invest €80 million (80 million euros) to convince Inter Milan. "He's expensive, but he'd mark an era," a board member told La Gazzetta dello Sport. Bastoni is not just a reinforcement, but a long-term bet to ensure stability and experience at the back.
Julián Álvarez, the offensive gem
If the defense seeks solidity, the attack wants dynamism. Julián Álvarez, Argentine forward from Atlético de Madrid, is emerging as the priority. His secondary role at the Colchonero club under Diego Simeone could open the door to a transfer that would revolutionize the Barça front line.
Barça sees Álvarez as the ideal heir to Robert Lewandowski, whose time at the top is coming to an end. The intention is clear: prepare a reliable replacement who will keep the scoring power in decisive matches. The offer would be around €100 million (100 million euros), aware that the investment is high but necessary.
Álvarez brings experience in the Champions League, titles with the Argentine national team, and a versatility that allows him to play as a "9" or second striker. His style would fit perfectly with the high-pressing and dynamic philosophy Hansi Flick wants to implement in the blaugrana attack.
A long-term strategic plan
The idea of the technical department is precise: consolidate Cubarsí in defense and guarantee a reliable replacement for Lewandowski in attack. Although there are options like Koundé, Eric García, or Christensen, Bastoni is emerging as the defensive pillar Barça needs.
Meanwhile, Julián Álvarez would mean a leap in quality in attack. "With Julián, we can think about a new offensive cycle," the board assures. The total investment of €180 million (180 million euros) reflects the club's ambition: to compete strongly again in the Champions League starting from the 2026-27 season.