Barcelona 'plot Julian Alvarez deal' and other Man City transfer rumours

Barcelona are considering a swoop for Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez, according to reports.

The 23-year-old World Cup winner has, largely, had to play second fiddle to Norway sensation Erling Haaland in his spell at the Etihad Stadium to date. However, owing to injuries to other players, Alvarez has played 13 matches this season with six goals and five assists to show for his efforts.

City signed the Argentina international from River Plate midway through the 2021/2022 season. He cost the treble-winners only £14million at that juncture and remains under contract until 2028.

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But there is ongoing interest from Camp Nou in the 26-cap forward. Reports from Spanish outlet Sport note down Alvarez as a top target for Barcelona as they mull over long-term replacements for Robert Lewandowski.

In the article, Sport indicate that Barcelona manager Xavi and sporting director Deco both admire the City player and will continue to keep tabs on his situation. Alvarez is claimed to have a release clause worth £43.4million.

Elsewhere, reports from Calciomercato suggest Italian giants AC Milan are ready to come calling for Sergio Gomez. The left-back has been a peripheral figure since his move to the Etihad Stadium.

Milan are mooted to see the 23-year-old as an ideal target due to his age, potential and versatility. A would-be fee between €18million and €20million has been floated around.

Gomez, who has only started two Premier League games since a switch to City last summer, has competition for a place at left-back from Nathan Ake and Josko Gvardiol, both ahead of him in the pecking order. He joined