Barcelona Pursues 100 Million Euro Star, Croatian Manager Involved in Talks

FC Barcelona is actively working to sign an Argentinian forward, with sporting director Deco taking concrete steps to secure the player before the World Cup begins. The Catalan club is reportedly targeting a deal worth around 100 million euros, plus potential bonuses.

Following the acquisition of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United for nearly 80 million euros, Barcelona has shifted its focus to this new high-profile reinforcement. The club has entered negotiations for Julian Alvarez, who is considered their primary transfer target.

According to Mundo Deportivo, initial discussions took place in Barcelona between Deco and Alvarez's agents, Juanmo Lopez and Andy Bara. Bara is noted as a prominent Croatian football manager. The talks lasted several hours, indicating serious intent from Barcelona to finalize the transfer swiftly.

The urgency to complete the deal stems from the club's desire to have the signing finalized before the commencement of the World Cup, suggesting strategic planning around the tournament schedule.