Barcelona continue to work on strengthening their attack after Robert Lewandowski’s exit. Julian Alvarez remains the preferred option, but the Catalan club are also monitoring another striker who fits Hansi Flick’s tactical expectations.
Barcelona continue search for a new number nine
Barcelona are still looking for a natural centre-forward following Robert Lewandowski’s departure. The club have already strengthened their attack with Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United, but that move has not solved the main problem: Hansi Flick still needs a reliable striker capable of leading the line.
According to reports from Spain, Julian Alvarez remains Barcelona’s priority. The Atletico Madrid forward is highly rated by Deco and fits the profile of a complete modern striker. However, negotiations for the Argentine are not straightforward, which is why Barcelona are preparing alternative options.
One of them is Benjamin Sesko, currently at Manchester United. The Slovenian has been placed on Barcelona’s list as a potential fallback plan if the club cannot reach an agreement for Alvarez.
Barcelona are not looking only for a penalty-box finisher. Flick wants a striker who can score regularly but also participate in combination play, connect with midfielders and operate within a collective attacking structure.
Sesko is seen as a player who meets those demands. After joining Manchester United from RB Leipzig for more than 75 million euros, he had a difficult start in England, but his position improved after Michael Carrick took charge. He eventually became an important part of the team and finished the season with 12 goals and one assist in 32 appearances.
Barcelona have followed Sesko before. The Catalan club already monitored him in 2024, when he was still playing in Germany for RB Leipzig. His development since then has kept him on their radar.
Manchester United unlikely to cooperate
The problem for Barcelona is Manchester United’s stance. According to TEAMtalk, the Premier League club do not want to sell Sesko. Carrick, who has recently extended his contract, views the striker as a key figure in his long-term project.
Sesko is also said to be comfortable in England and has the backing of his coach. United are looking for another forward, but not to replace him. Their plan is to bring in someone who can play alongside the Slovenian, while Joshua Zirkzee is expected to leave.
Barcelona therefore have several names under consideration. Apart from Alvarez and Sesko, the club have also been linked with Serhou Guirassy from Borussia Dortmund and Karl Etta Eyong from Levante.
Ferran Torres remains an internal option, but his lack of consistency means Barcelona are unlikely to treat him as the main solution. After winning La Liga last season, the club want a striker capable of helping Flick’s team compete not only domestically, but also in the Champions League.