Barcelona failed to secure Julian Alvarez during the summer transfer window despite pursuing the Atletico Madrid striker.
The Argentine wanted to move to Barcelona and rejected alternative interest as he pushed for a switch to Catalonia.
However, Atletico refused to negotiate his departure to a direct domestic rival and maintained a firm stance throughout the summer.
Barcelona eventually turned elsewhere and signed Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal to address their immediate need for another centre-forward.
Nevertheless, the arrival of Jesus has not ended Barcelona’s interest in Julian Alvarez, with another attempt already under consideration.
According to El Nacional, Barcelona plan to return for Alvarez when the January transfer window opens.
The Catalan club still considers the Argentina international a major target and intends to make another effort during the winter market.
Furthermore, Barcelona reportedly have a place reserved for Alvarez at centre-forward despite adding Jesus to Hansi Flick’s attacking options.
Atletico, however, have given Barcelona little encouragement that negotiations will become easier when the transfer window reopens.
The Madrid club remain determined to keep Alvarez and continue to regard him as an important part of Diego Simeone’s plans.
Atletico chief Miguel Angel Gil Marin has also ruled out negotiations with Barcelona and pointed towards Alvarez’s €490 million release clause.
Meanwhile, Atletico want to rebuild the forward’s confidence after the uncertainty surrounding his future during the summer transfer window.
Simeone continues to trust Alvarez and views the striker as a key player within his system for the coming months.
Barcelona have started the new La Liga campaign strongly as they pursue a third consecutive league title under Flick.
They recorded emphatic victories over Elche and Rayo Vallecano during their opening run, with their attack producing plenty of goals.
However, Barcelona’s plans for Alvarez remain firmly on the agenda despite their summer failure and subsequent move for Jesus.
The next opportunity will arrive in January, when the Catalan club intend to test Atletico’s resolve once again.
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