Barcelona eyeing summer swoop for Swedish forward | OneFootball

Erling Haaland is the dream signing for Joan Laporta, and many figures from the club president’s environment have revealed his obsession with bringing the Norweigan to Camp Nou.

The operation, however, is complicated as several clubs across Europe are looking to sign the wonderkid. Moreover, there are questions over Barcelona’s financial ability to pay the huge agent fees and signing bonuses required.

SPORT report that the Catalans have identified Real Sociedad striker Alexander Isak as an alternative to Haaland. The La Liga striker has received interest from the Premier League but would prefer joining Barcelona over moving to England.

Isak is no stranger to being linked with Barcelona. In 2020, the Swedish international was scouted by the Blaugranas as an alternative to Lautaro Martinez. More recently, his name arose as a potential option when the club brought in Memphis Depay and Sergio Aguero too.

His price, however, could end up being a problem for Barça. After penning a new contract with La Real this year, his release clause is rumoured to be north of €70 million.

The 22-year-old has played 17 games for Sociedad this season, scoring four goals and recording one assist. While his output has been on the lower end of the spectrum this season, there is little doubting his ability. His most recent goal came in the Copa del Rey when he put his team ahead in just the eighth minute against Leganes.

Finishing has been Barcelona’s Achilles heel this season. Martin Braithwaite’s surgery last year coupled with Kun Aguero’s forced retirement have left Xavi with few options to play in front of goal.

Luuk de Jong, who has emerged as an unexpected hero, could depart in January. Ousmane Dembele seems set to leave on a free transfer too.

Dusan Vlahovic of Fiorentine was rumoured to be Barça’s alternative to Haaland, but could end up costing an amount upwards of €60 million. That said, the need for a new striker in June cannot be understated. Isak could provide the ideal solution.