Barcelona push for Alvarez as Silva picks Atleti
Barcelona miss Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez vs Valencia, but De Jong, Rashford and Ferran return. Araujo, Cubarsi and Balde could start, with Raphinha leading the attack. Lewandowski may feature off the bench.
Raphinha says he turned down offers from a ‘Blue’ and a ‘Red’ London team to join Barcelona in 2022, calling it the best decision of his career after posting 29 goal contributions this season.
Barcelona U19 striker Hamza Abdelkarim, on loan from Al Ahly, earns an Egypt call-up for the 2026 World Cup after scoring six in eight league games. A permanent move to Barça is expected in summer.
Ansu Fati, after 12 goals in 30 games on loan at Monaco, is stalling on a permanent move as he hopes to earn a place under Hansi Flick. Barcelona have not yet contacted him about his future.
Bernardo Silva will join Atletico Madrid despite Barcelona interest. Barça prioritise attack and defence over midfield and stepped back due to finances, letting Atleti move quickly for the free agent.
Joan Laporta accuses Real Madrid of ‘using Barça to cover up their failures’ over Negreira claims, citing Barcelona’s recent trophies and insisting the club will respond. He backs Barça Femení for the final.
Roony Bardghji denies ‘nonsense’ rumours about behaviour after Sweden World Cup omission, says he respects Graham Potter’s decision and supports the team, comparing celebrations to Barcelona’s La Liga win.
Barcelona will delay Ferran Torres renewal talks, prioritising the post-Lewandowski attack plan and finances. His deal runs to 2027, versatility valued, and his role could grow if striker targets are missed.
Bournemouth set a €90m minimum for Eli Junior Kroupi. The 19-year-old, with 13 Premier League goals, is on Barcelona’s radar, but director Tiago Pinto insists he will not be sold even for €100m.
Eric Garcia hails Hansi Flick as ‘tough’ and demanding, credits him for confidence and versatility after a title-winning season, while stressing La Liga rewards consistency despite Champions League frustration.
Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso stayed coy on exits when asked about Joao Pedro, Barcelona’s No. 1 striker target. Pedro is open to Barça, but any deal could cost around €100m after a 20-goal debut season.
Juventus want €50m for left-back Andrea Cambiaso. Barcelona are preparing an offer as they seek a new left-back, though Juve previously quoted up to €70m and his current form raises value questions.
Thiago Alcantara has told Barcelona players he will leave Hansi Flick’s staff after the season, having focused on midfield tactical work. He will attend personal matters and join CE L’Hospitalet’s board.
Barcelona will step up talks for Julian Alvarez amid his tense situation with Diego Simeone. Moretto says Alvarez prefers Spain and told Atleti: ‘If I leave Atletico Madrid, it will only be to Barcelona.’
Real Madrid have discussed signing free agent Dusan Vlahovic, after interest from Barcelona, Milan, Atletico and Bayern. Juventus have failed to agree reduced terms, with Vlahovic linked as Lewandowski’s replacement.
Marcus Rashford thanks Hansi Flick, Barcelona and others after England World Cup call-up. On loan at Barça, he has 28 goal contributions this season, reflecting Flick’s sustained backing during his revival.
