Barcelona add RCD Mallorca striker to shortlist

Barcelona have added an in-form RCD Mallorca striker to their shortlist as they explore alternatives to Julian Alvarez.

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With the summer window approaching, attention has shifted towards finding a new focal point in attack, especially with uncertainty surrounding Robert Lewandowski and his long-term future at the club.

The need for a reliable goalscorer is becoming increasingly urgent, and Barcelona are wasting no time exploring the market for solutions.

While there is a clear first-choice target, the club are fully aware that landing him will not be simple, prompting them to widen their search.

As a result, multiple profiles are now being assessed as Barcelona look to balance ambition with realism.

Leading the shortlist is Julian Alvarez, who is seen internally as the perfect player to take over the No.9 role.

The Atletico Madrid forward’s versatility, movement and pedigree, including his 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph, make him an ideal fit for Barcelona’s evolving system.

However, the financial and sporting complexity of a deal means the Catalan giants are actively preparing fallback options.

One of the most surprising names under consideration is Vedat Muriqi of RCD Mallorca, as reported by SPORT.

Barcelona’s recruitment team are specifically targeting a striker with a strong physical presence, aerial dominance and proven experience, qualities that Vedat Muriqi offers in abundance.

At 1.94m tall, the 31-year-old brings a direct and powerful style that contrasts sharply with Barcelona’s current attacking options, making him an intriguing tactical alternative.

His performances this season have been impossible to ignore, with 21 goals in 30 league appearances putting him among the most effective forwards in Spain.

Barcelona have already taken initial steps to gather information about his situation, although formal talks have not yet been opened.

Muriqi, for his part, is understood to be focused on finishing the campaign strongly before entertaining any transfer discussions.

His contract runs until 2029 and includes a €40 million release clause, but there is a growing belief that the final fee could be negotiated down depending on Mallorca’s league position.

Barcelona are keeping a particularly close eye on that scenario, knowing that relegation could significantly lower his price and make a deal far more attractive.

At the same time, the club are not limiting themselves to one alternative.

Alexander Sorloth has also entered the conversation, offering a similar blend of size, strength and La Liga experience.

As things stand, Barcelona’s striker search is evolving into a multi-layered strategy, with the club determined to secure the right profile — whether that means landing their dream target or turning to a more unexpected solution.

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