Atlético Madrid are pursuing Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal as a potential alternative to Julián Álvarez, according to reports from El Chiringuito. This development comes as Al-Nassr attempt to facilitate a move for Barcelona to sign Jhon Durán, potentially as a contingency plan should Álvarez depart.
Al-Nassr have offered Barcelona the opportunity to sign Durán, who has struggled to make an impact since joining the Saudi Arabian side, according to Diario Sport. The Colombian has been on loan at both Zenit Saint Petersburg and Fenerbahce, and Al-Nassr are now reportedly seeking to move him on again. Sport also notes that Benfica are considering a loan deal for Durán with an option to buy.
The offer of Durán to Barcelona is linked to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Álvarez’s future. Atlético are reportedly considering replacements for the Argentine, and the pursuit of Oyarzabal suggests they are preparing for a scenario where Álvarez leaves. The logic behind Simeone’s interest in Oyarzabal is clear, as the Atlético manager seeks forwards capable of playing across the entire front line, a profile that the Real Sociedad player fits well.
Oyarzabal remains under contract at Real Sociedad, meaning Atlético would need to negotiate a deal with the Basque club. While El Chiringuito reports cautious optimism from Atlético, further details regarding a potential transfer mechanism are currently unavailable. Barcelona have also been linked with Oyarzabal this summer, potentially leading to a bidding war between the two La Liga giants.
The Álvarez situation continues to be a key factor influencing Atlético’s transfer strategy. A failure to secure Álvarez could force the club to accelerate their pursuit of Oyarzabal or explore other options. For Barcelona, the need for a reliable central striker is pressing, and the Durán offer may represent a cost-effective solution if other targets prove unattainable. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the futures of all players involved.
