Barcelona refuse to activate Plan B as Flick and Deco remain firm on 2022 World Cup winner – report

Barcelona are steadfast in their pursuit of Julian Alvarez, despite it appearing unlikely that Atletico Madrid will negotiate in the coming months. The Catalan club seems unwilling to abandon their efforts to sign the Chilean striker, even as the odds diminish. According to SPORT, Barcelona will not activate Plan B and remain committed to Alvarez, with managing director Hansi Flick and full-back Deco insistent on waiting for him.

Barcelona's board includes some individuals who advocate for an accelerated search for a number nine or an alternative plan, but Flick and Deco stand behind Alvarez and are willing to extend the timeline. The report suggests that Alvarez may be pressuring Atletico to reconsider their refusal to negotiate, as he believes he was misled into thinking a departure was possible under certain conditions.

The Argentine has already had a brief conversation with Atletico's manager Diego Simeone and could approach the club's CEO, Miguel Angel Gil Marin, to push for a resolution. Barcelona's willingness to potentially increase their offer if Atletico agrees to negotiate reflects their determination to secure Alvarez's transfer. However, the strategy carries risks, as delaying too long could limit Barcelona's options later in the transfer window. For now, Barcelona stands firm, hoping Atletico will open the door for a transfer.