- Barcelona are considering Luis Suárez as an alternative to Julian Alvarez, with Atlético Madrid refusing to negotiate over their €500m release clause.
Barcelona consider Luis Suárez as Alvarez alternative
Barcelona are assessing Luis Javier Suárez as a potential alternative to Julian Alvarez, should their pursuit of the Atlético Madrid striker fail, according to Fabrizio Romano. Alvarez remains Barça's priority, but Atlético's refusal to negotiate has forced the Catalan club to explore other options.
Alvarez has been Barcelona's priority from the beginning of the transfer window; the player also wants a move to the Catalan giants, and he expressed his wish to join the club, but Atlético are refusing to negotiate and would only allow Alvarez to leave if his €500m release clause is triggered.
In this scenario, Barcelona is considering the sporting striker as a solution to the striker role; he had an exceptional 2025-26 season with the Portuguese club, scoring 28 goals and providing 5 assists from 32 matches.
How Suárez could fit Barcelona's attack
Suárez's direct style would give Barcelona a different profile from Alvarez. His pace, aggressive pressing, and ability to attack space could make him particularly useful against teams defending with a high line, while his movement could also create space for Barcelona's wide attackers.
As per the report from Alex Pintanel, the entourage of Suarez was aware of Barcelona's interest in signing him days ago, but not as a priority at this moment, but it will be a serious option from next week onwards if the pursuit for Alvarez fails; the release clause of Luis Suarez is €80 million.
The 28-year-old joined Sporting in the summer of 2025 from Spanish club Almería for €25 million, including add-ons, after his impressive display in the Segunda División. After impressive performances with the Portuguese side, he featured in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for Colombia in 5 matches and delivered an assist.