€50m release clause, Xavi and more: 4 reasons why it's possible for Barca to sign Julian Alvarez

This week, Barcelona have been linked with a move to sign Julian Alvarez. It's not a crazy rumour though. There are a number of reasons why the Argentinean striker could possibly end up at Barca as early as the coming summer.

1. €50m release clause

According to Diario Sport, Alvarez has a €50m release clause inserted in his contract. If that's true, Barca will probably jump on this deal in the coming months. After all, the Blaugrana paid €55m to sign Ferran Torres.

Currently, Alvarez' market value stands at €80m (on Transfermarkt) and his contract runs until the summer of 2028. It means he's probably beyond the reach of Barca financially unless that release clause is in place.

2. Xavi likes his profile

Multiple sources claim that Xavi likes Alvarez's profile a lot. The fact is, there's scarcely any manager in the world today who would say no to Alvarez.

The 23-year-old is a complete footballer who can play anywhere in attack, score and create goals. Pep Guardiola uses him behind the striker at Man City and he continually proves hard to stop.

2 ways how Barca could line up with Julian Alvarez next season

3. Alvarez dreams of Barca

Alvarez has idolized Lionel Messi since he was a child and likely dreamt of playing in the same club where his idol became a living legend — FC Barcelona.

Manchester City have grown in the last decade, but Barcelona remains one of the biggest football institutions in the world with no comparisons to Manchester club. Thus, a move to Barca for Alvarez will be a big step up in career and probably a dream come true.

4. Barca needs one more striker

Robert Lewandowski is 35 and already showing signs of slowing down. Even if he wins the Pichichi again this season, Barca will almost be foolhardy to keep relying on the ageing striker for goals.

Indeed Barca have taken a wise step in signing Vitor Roque from Paranaense. But we mustn't forget that Vitor is still 18 and needs time to grow and adapt to a new country and language.

That's exactly why Barcelona needs one more experienced striker with a winning mentality to shoulder their goalscoring burden. Who better than a World Cup and Champions League winner to do it?

What do you think of Barca possibly signing Julian Alvarez? Tell us in the comments!