
UEFA Champions League
The president of FC Barcelona, Joan Laporta, is preparing an ambitious move in the 2026 market to strengthen the squad with two world-class stars: Julián Álvarez from Atlético de Madrid and Alessandro Bastoni from Inter Milan.
The Barça board would allocate around 200 million euros to finalize both deals, in what would be a show of authority both in sports and politics, as Laporta aims to solidify his project ahead of the club's presidential elections.
Julián Álvarez, a Barcelona dream
Julián Álvarez arrived at Atlético de Madrid as a star signing, swiftly proving his quality with goals and assists that positioned him among Europe's top forwards. However, the lack of collective titles and an inconsistent start to the current season have raised doubts about his continuity at the Metropolitano.
According to the Argentine press, the forward does not hide some discontent with the rojiblanco project. While he appreciates his experience in the Spanish capital, he feels that Atlético does not provide him with the desired level of competitiveness. His recent stunning goal against Espanyol in a match that ended in defeat reflects his individual commitment but also the team's collective struggles.
His circle does not rule out a move in 2026. Barcelona appears as the ideal destination for a player who has always shown admiration for the Blaugrana entity. Spanish analysts suggest that "his signing would be the summer blockbuster, a young, elite attacker hungry for titles."

Bastoni, the missing piece in defense
Simultaneously, Alessandro Bastoni has become the obsession of Joan Laporta, Deco, and Hansi Flick. At just 26 years old, the Inter Milan defender already boasts two Serie A titles and two Champions League final appearances, establishing him as one of Europe's most reliable center-backs.
His profile as a left-footed center-back with great ball distribution fits perfectly with Barcelona's future plan. "We need balance and leadership in defense, and Bastoni can provide that," Flick reportedly mentioned to the sporting management. Following Iñigo Martínez's move to Saudi football, the Italian is seen as the natural replacement to partner with Pau Cubarsí.
The Inter Milan won't let him go easily, but his contract enters a critical phase in 2026. The Catalan club is optimistic that the contractual situation will facilitate negotiations, especially if the Nerazzurri fail to renew him in advance.

A plan conditioned by strategic sales
To execute this double signing, FC Barcelona is considering freeing up wage space and generating income through the potential sale of a key player. The name of Ronald Araújo emerges as a candidate to leave, particularly if he fails to establish himself as a defensive mainstay.
Laporta's strategy involves earning a sum close to 70-80 million euros from a significant sale, reinvesting a portion of that amount, and completing the remainder with the anticipated financial injection for 2026.
Laporta and his electoral strategy
Joan Laporta's plan for 2026 goes beyond sports; it also carries a strong political component. Following the conquest of LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa in the previous season, the leader aims to secure the continuity of a winning project and persuade the members to grant him reelection.
By bringing in Julián Álvarez and Bastoni, Laporta seeks to send a message of ambition and stability, bolstering the team with two players in their competitive prime and with long-term potential.
Barcelona's million-euro investment
The joint operation would amount to approximately 200 million euros, making this move one of the club's most expensive endeavors. The outlay is justified by the need to consolidate a title-winning squad capable of competing with Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Experts highlight that "Laporta plays his cards with two names who offer immediate performance and guarantee excitement to the fans. If he manages to sign them, he not only strengthens the team but also paves his way to reelection."
FC Barcelona is gearing up for a historic market in 2026. With Julián Álvarez as the offensive bet to replace Lewandowski and Alessandro Bastoni as the defensive reinforcement to partner with Pau Cubarsi, Joan Laporta aims to secure the club's future and solidify his leadership.
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