BREAKING NEWS: Coming Live From Camp Nou, Barcelona Ready To Sign Messi Teammate Who He Called Extraordinary.

Barcelona are reportedly interested in signing Manchester City’s Argentine star Julian Alvarez, who Lionel Messi once called ‘extraordinary.’ The Catalans have their sights on the City forward as they look to add more firepower to their team under Hansi Flick. “Barcelona seeks City striker on Messi’s recommendation for an explosive new signing.”

Barcelona are reportedly eyeing Manchester City’s Argentine forward Julian Alvarez, whom Lionel Messi once praised as ‘extraordinary.’ The Catalans are keen on adding Alvarez to their squad under the management of Hansi Flick, seeking to enhance their attacking options.

According to the Spanish outlet SPORT, Barcelona highly admires Alvarez, believing that his versatility fits well with their sporting project. The 24-year-old Argentine had an impressive season with City, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists in 54 games across all competitions.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta is reportedly planning to pursue Alvarez as part of his campaign for re-election. Laporta previously promised to extend Messi’s contract, but the club’s financial issues resulted in Messi’s departure.

Messi himself has lauded Alvarez’s talents, particularly after Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup victory. Messi stated (via Manchester Evening News), “Nobody imagined Julian would have the participation and importance he has shown. The help he has given us has been absolutely spectacular. During the whole World Cup, but also on Tuesday, he was extraordinary. He ran everything.”

Laporta is also interested in Alvarez’s City teammate Erling Haaland, but any potential move for Haaland is expected to be considered next year. Barcelona aims to respond to Real Madrid’s acquisition of Kylian Mbappe by bolstering their squad with top talents.

Alvarez has four years remaining on his contract with Manchester City, meaning Barcelona would need to negotiate a deal to secure his transfer. Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain have also been linked with the World Cup winner, who is valued at £80 million.

Alvarez and Messi have developed a strong bond while playing for Argentina. The City forward was part of the team that helped Messi achieve his dream of winning the World Cup. The duo is currently competing in the Copa America in the United States, with Argentina starting the tournament with a 1-0 win against Chile on June 26.

Ahead of the competition, Alvarez expressed his hope that Messi would continue playing for Argentina. Speaking to ESPN, the Barcelona target said he hoped the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner would resist retirement, emphasizing that the team is better with Messi in it.