Alexander Sorloth of Atletico Madrid
Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
In a major development, journalist Matteo Moretto (via Mundo Deportivo) reports that FC Barcelona have made an enquiry for Atletico Madrid striker Alexander Sorloth.
It is no secret that the Blaugrana are keeping a close eye on the striker market as they look to strengthen their squad with a top forward in case Robert Lewandowski leaves. Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez is seen as the top target.
In addition to that, the La Liga leaders are also open to the idea of bringing in another attacker who can guarantee goals, either as a backup or even as a starter if he earns it through performance.
In that context, a familiar name has emerged as an option for Barça: Alexander Sorloth.
The Norwegian forward, who will play his first World Cup in June, is under contract until 2028 and has a €35 million release clause at Atletico, where he is not a regular starter but still gets quality minutes.
Alexander Sorloth of Atletico Madrid
Alexander Sorloth an option for Barcelona. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
The No. 9 role at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano belongs to Julian Alvarez, another Barça target who would command a much higher price and could be close to being tied down with a new deal by the Colchoneros.
Sorloth is a striker who is quick for his size, strong in the air, and has a powerful left-footed shot. He is also a team player who could accept a secondary role.
The 30-year-old striker has 17 goals and one assist from 47 matches across all competitions for Atletico Madrid this season.
He has already scored seven and assisted three goals against Barcelona in 15 official matches while playing for Real Sociedad, Villarreal, and Atletico.
In the recent Champions League quarter-final tie between the two teams, he played a key role in Barça’s elimination, scoring in the first leg at Camp Nou and drawing the red card for Eric Garcia in the second leg at the Metropolitano.