BREAKING: Barcelona Add Sporting’s Luis Suárez to Shortlist if Julián Álvarez Deal Fails

Barcelona have added Sporting CP striker Luis Suárez to their shortlist of attacking options in case they fail to complete a deal for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Álvarez remains Barcelona’s priority target, but the Catalan giants are now considering alternatives as uncertainty continues to surround their pursuit of the Argentine striker.

Suárez is understood to be among the options being considered by Barcelona, although the move is not currently at the stage of formal negotiations between the two clubs. Spanish reports say Barcelona have made enquiries around the player’s situation.

Barcelona Consider Suárez as Álvarez Alternative

The Colombian striker has emerged as a potential alternative because of his performances for Sporting.

Suárez enjoyed an impressive campaign in Portugal, scoring 28 league goals in 32 appearances and finishing as the league’s top scorer, according to Cadena SER. He also has an €80 million release clause in his Sporting contract.

However, Sporting consider Suárez an important player and are not expected to make negotiations easy.

As previously reported, the Portuguese club have been directing interested clubs towards his €80 million release clause rather than indicating a willingness to negotiate his departure on favourable terms.

Julián Álvarez Remains Barcelona’s Priority

Despite adding Suárez to their shortlist, Barcelona have not abandoned their pursuit of Álvarez.

The Argentine forward remains the club’s preferred option for strengthening the attack, but Atlético Madrid have maintained a firm position over his future.

Recent reports indicate that Álvarez has also reassured Atlético teammates of his commitment to the club despite the transfer saga.

Barcelona are therefore keeping alternative options available should the Álvarez deal fail to materialise.

According to Romano’s update, Barcelona are expected to seriously consider Suárez and other alternatives from next week if the situation surrounding Álvarez remains unresolved.

For now, Luis Suárez remains a Sporting player, with Barcelona’s interest dependent on what happens with their pursuit of Álvarez.