New Barcelona boss Hansi Flick recommends Atletico Madrid target with 26 goals this season as signing to support Lewandowski: Reports
New Barcelona coach Hansi Flick has recommended the signing of Villareal striker Alexander Sorloth as a backup for Robert Lewandowski, as per El Nacional. The Norwegian scored 26 goals and provided six assists in 41 appearances across all competitions this season and is reportedly also on Atletico Madrid's radar.
As per El Nacional, Flick still trusts Lewandowski, who has previously played under him at Bayern Munich. However, he recognizes that the Polish striker is not performing to the best of his abilities owing to his age.
Lewandowski is set to turn 36 this August and Barcelona has been looking for a backup striker to support him for a while.
Alexander Sorloth is a good prospect for the Blaugrana this summer, especially since the Norwegian had a fairly good season with Villareal. He missed out on the Pichichi trophy to Girona's Artem Dobvyk after suffering an injury in Villareal's clash against Osasuna despite being only one goal behind.
Flick has reportedly strongly recommended Sorloth's name to Barcelona sporting director Deco, as the German believes his price would not be too heavy on the club's pocket.
However, Barcelona could face tough competition from rivals Atletico Madrid, who are also searching for an ideal replacement for Spanish forward Alvaro Morata.
Barcelona are still considering a loan move for Vitor Roque despite Xavi's departure
Barcelona signed Brazilian striker Vitor Roque from Athletico Paranaense in January this year as a backup for Robert Lewandowski. However, former coach Xavi was reportedly keen on sending him on a loan move, as he did not feature in the Spaniard's plans.
According to SPORT, Barca are still considering a loan move for Vitor Roque this summer. The management reportedly does not believe the Brazilian could get minutes under Flick, so their plan is to send him on loan without a buy clause.
The final decision will reportedly be made by Hansi Flick who will further analyze the situation after his arrival in the summer. Roque or his entourage have made it clear that they are not interested in a loan move.
As per The Sun, Arsenal are reportedly monitoring the Brazilian's situation at Barca, with the Gunner's sporting director Edu Gasper an admirer of the player.