Barcelona weigh internal options in search for new No 9

Barcelona are still looking for a new focal point in attack after being left without a recognised No 9 following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. With the new LaLiga season approaching and a move for Julian Alvarez still not completed, the club are increasingly being pushed towards short-term internal solutions.

Striker search still unresolved

The situation has become one of the most pressing issues in Hansi Flick's squad planning. Barcelona have not yet brought in a direct replacement for Lewandowski, while Torres has also moved on, leaving a significant gap through the middle.

Julian Alvarez remains the main target, but the deal has not progressed because Atletico Madrid have not entered negotiations. Unless that changes quickly, Barcelona may have to look elsewhere in the market or rely on players already in the squad to cover the role.

Fermin Lopez offers himself as an option

One of the more unexpected possibilities has come from within the dressing room. Speaking to Diari ARA, Fermin Lopez addressed the question of who could play through the centre and suggested several names already available to Flick.

Lopez pointed to Anthony Gordon as someone capable of operating as a central striker, while also mentioning Dani Olmo, Raphinha and himself as possible alternatives. His comments underline the extent to which Barcelona are seriously considering positional adjustments if no specialist forward arrives in time.

The 23-year-old also made clear that he would be open to taking on the role. After scoring 13 goals last season, Lopez said he can adapt and noted that he had previously played as a false nine in Barcelona's youth teams. He explained that the position is similar to his preferred role as an attacking midfielder, while adding that he can also feature on the left wing.

A versatile answer to a squad problem

Lopez's willingness to step in may not solve Barcelona's long-term need for a specialist striker, but it does offer Flick a practical emergency option. His profile as an attacking midfielder with goal threat could make him a useful stop-gap if the club begin the season without a new centre-forward.

There is already another sign of Lopez's growing status in the squad. He has taken over the No 7 shirt previously worn by Torres, having switched from No 16. Lopez said it is a number he has always liked and one associated with major figures in the club's history, adding that he was happy to take it when it became available.

Pressure building before the new season

Barcelona's priority remains clear: they want to sign a successor to Lewandowski. But with time running down and Alvarez still out of reach for now, the club are being forced to prepare for other scenarios.

That leaves Flick balancing two tasks at once — waiting to see whether Barcelona can land their preferred target, while also identifying which current players can carry the burden in the middle of the attack. For now, Lopez has become one of the most vocal and intriguing candidates.