Covered this time by Lewandowski’s focus, Xavi has maintained contact with the striker, who from a second plane may have more options.
The situation
Alvaro Morata (10-23-1992) has not disappeared from Barcelona’s radar since January. So, it was Xavi’s number one request to strengthen the lead, but Atlético put obstacles in the way of the signing and Mateu Alemany had to go for Aubameyang. Xavi, however, has maintained some contact with the player, who is once again a possibility for Barcelona 2022-23.The scenario, this time, is different. Morata plays the role of cover while all the lights are directed at Robert Lewandowski, an almost impossible dream for Barcelona, who still hasten their options to try to incorporate the Pole. Nobody, however, believes that the economic scenario of the Barça club will allow this signing. That is where Morata comes in, who is a possible alternative although, as was shown in January, his departure is not easy either. Morata ends his loan relationship with Juventus in June and, in principle, must return to Atlético de Madrid. If the Bianconeri entity wants to keep the striker from Madrid, he must pay 35 million euros; And she doesn’t seem too keen to do it. Arsenal and Barcelona are pending the player’s situation, which he will not continue for various reasons at Atlético de Madrid. Barcelona already tried last January to pay for the player’s transfer in variables (games played, goals), but Atletico was not willing to reinforce a direct rival, much less in January.
The details
The background is the Griezmann affair. Atletico will have to pay 40 million euros to Barcelona in 2023 as long as the Frenchman has played at least 50% of the games in which he has been available. That piece could be key to the Morata operation but, at this time, it is not even clear that Griezmann will continue the next season of rojiblanco. Today, Morata’s great obsession is to find the perfect destination that will allow him to arrive in the best condition for the World Cup. That means reaching it in physical, mental and soccer fullness. And everything happens to play so that his position is not in danger. That factor will be decisive in his negotiation with Atlético and with his destination club.