With Atlético Madrid showing no sign of weakening their stance over Julián Álvarez, Barcelona's recruitment chiefs have begun casting their net far and wide in search of a centre-forward alternative.

Sporting director Deco recently sat down for a round of negotiations with the representatives of Inter Milan star Lautaro Martínez, while the Catalans have separately made contact with the camp of Villarreal striker Georges Mikautadze — a player described as the top name on Deco's list of targets.

Álvarez pursuit stalling

The summer to date has seen Barcelona linked chiefly with one striker target, in the form of Atlético Madrid standout Julián Álvarez. The Blaugrana, however, have time and again seen their advances rebuffed by an Atleti outfit adamant that their star goalscorer will go nowhere this summer.

Deco and co, as a result, have been left with little choice but to begin scouring the market for alternative profiles in their bid to replace Robert Lewandowski. As reported by Jijantes: "Barça's sporting director, Deco, met last week with Alejandro Camaño to gauge the future of Argentine striker Lautaro Martínez. It's one of the options if Julián Álvarez falls through."

Mikautadze emerges as leading alternative

If the Lautaro link is a heavyweight option, the Mikautadze trail appears the most advanced. According to Jijantes, the Catalans have made contact with the Georgian's camp and have already received the player's green light for a move should the pursuit of Álvarez fail.

Unlike Atlético Madrid, Villarreal would be willing to part ways with the striker at the right price, reportedly set at €60 million. The Yellow Submarine signed Mikautadze from Lyon for half that amount last summer and have seen his market value skyrocket after a really good debut season in Spain, with 15 goals and 6 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.

The 25-year-old played as the main forward alongside Ayoze Pérez in a front two in Villarreal's 4-4-2 formation last season, and he fits the mold of the mobile striker Barça are looking for. Blessed with excellent pace, great on-ball skills and a strong finishing touch in front of goal, he would also cost significantly less than Álvarez and is seen as a quality alternative who can flourish in Hansi Flick's system.

Deco really likes him, the player wants the move, and Villarreal are willing to talk — making Mikautadze one of the most credible names on a growing list as Barcelona weigh up how to refresh their attack ahead of the new campaign.