FC Barcelona are facing a serious shortage in central attack just five days before the start of their new La Liga season following the departure of forward Ferran Torres to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Spanish champions have not yet signed a direct replacement for veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, leaving club directors with only two weeks remaining in the transfer window to find a solution for the position.
Barcelona's primary transfer target remains Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez. However, negotiations have stalled because the Madrid club is blocking the move, forcing head coach Hansi Flick to consider emergency internal solutions if no external signing is made.
Internal options for central attack
Speaking in an interview with Catalan newspaper Diari ARA, Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the central striker position. Lopez explained that he did not know who would start upfront, but pointed out that Anthony Gordon could fill the role, alongside Dani Olmo, Raphinha, or himself.
The 23-year-old Spanish midfielder scored 13 goals for Barcelona last season and insisted he would be happy to test himself in a new central role.
Lopez explained that he could adapt to playing as a central attacker after previously operating as a false nine in Barcelona's youth teams. He noted that the position was similar to his preferred role as an attacking midfielder, adding that while he could also play on the left wing, he felt most comfortable in attacking midfield.
New shirt number for Lopez
Lopez has already stepped into Torres's shoes off the pitch by inheriting the Spanish forward's former number seven shirt ahead of the new campaign.
Lopez said seven was a shirt number he had always liked, noting that several legendary players in Barcelona's history had worn it. He explained that because it became available following Torres's 50 million euro transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, he asked club officials for the jersey and was delighted to wear it, having previously worn number 16.
