Deco closes the book on Julian Alvarez as Barcelona move on from failed summer chase

Barcelona's long and public pursuit of Julian Alvarez is officially over. After spending the entire summer trying to prise the striker away from Atletico Madrid, the Catalans were forced to concede defeat when the capital club refused to sell — and now sporting director Deco has made clear there will be no revisit of the saga.

"The story is in the past"

Speaking to reporters, Deco was unequivocal about where Alvarez now stands in Barcelona's plans. "The story with Julián Alvarez is in the past, we have to look ahead, we're happy with everything else," he said. "I hope he's doing well too, helping his club, and in the end, that's what it's all about. There are many deals, many signings that get done."

The comments appear to shut the door on reports that Barcelona could reignite their interest in the forward in future transfer windows. Deco's tone suggests the club has drawn a line under the episode and is content with the alternatives at its disposal.

Raphinha and Gabriel Jesus fill the void

Since missing out on Alvarez, Barcelona have reshaped their attack under Hansi Flick. Raphinha has been shifted into the No. 9 role and has responded emphatically, finding the net consistently for the German coach's side. The Brazilian's reinvention as a centre-forward has softened the blow of the failed Alvarez bid.

Barcelona also turned to the Premier League to bolster their striking options, signing Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal. The Brazilian has already opened his account, scoring twice in four appearances — all of them from the bench — as he beds into life at Camp Nou.

Verdict still debated

Whether Barcelona were right to walk away — or whether they should have pushed harder to land Alvarez — remains a live debate among supporters. With Raphinha thriving through the middle and Gabriel Jesus contributing, the immediate evidence backs Deco's decision to look ahead rather than dwell on the one that got away.