Barcelona eyeing Tresoldi after giving up on Alvarez

Barcelona have identified Nicolo Tresoldi as a striker they could target after abandoning their pursuit of Julian Alvarez (h/t Sport).

The Catalan giants explored several options to strengthen the number nine position after it became clear that a deal for Alvarez would be difficult.

With Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres leaving over the summer, Barcelona wanted to add another goalscorer.

They ultimately signed Gabriel Jesus for a cut-price fee, but he is not a long-term solution.

Barcelona also considered Tresoldi as a surprise alternative during the final weeks of the transfer window.

Sporting director Deco has been impressed by the Club Brugge striker’s rapid development.

Tresoldi enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Belgium last season, finishing as the club’s leading scorer with 23 goals and nine assists.

His numbers were impressive, but his all-round game also caught Barcelona’s attention.

Tresoldi’s ability to link play and contribute in possession makes him a suitable fit for Hansi Flick’s all-action style.

The move carried an element of risk, given his limited experience at the highest level.

However, the 21-year-old has continued to develop and is now producing even more convincing numbers.

Tresoldi has scored five goals in nine appearances this season, while his form has also translated to the international stage with Germany Under-21s.

He scored against Latvia before producing a standout display against Malta, netting a hat-trick. He has all the tools to play for the German senior team.

Given that Raphinha has taken to the centre-forward position like duck to water, Barcelona can afford to go for a less prominent option such as Tresoldi and hope he develops into a world beater.