Manchester City are battling to keep hold of Julian Alvarez

After two extraordinary years at Manchester City, winning back-to-back Premier League, Champions League and World Cup titles, Julian Alvarez is already one of the most decorated footballers in the world.

The Argentina international moved to Manchester City in 2022 from boyhood club River Plate amid high expectations. So far, it has not disappointed. In fact, despite being considered a backup to Erling Haaland, the 24-year-old has held his own.

With 11 goals and nine assists in 35 Premier League starts and five goals in seven Champions League appearances last season, his potential to lead the line for any top team is clear. Little wonder then that Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are reported to be interested in the player.

Striker Robert Lewandowski is attracting attention from Saudi Arabia and could be lured by a big money offer. That will leave Barcelona in need of a striker to replace the Poland international and Alvarez has been identified as the man who could fill the gap.

Paris Saint-Germain, on the other hand, also has a void to fill. The departure of star striker Kylian Mbappé to Real Madrid has left the French giants short-handed up front. Alvarez is seen as a good option to replace the Frenchman.

Reports say Manchester City are not interested in any deal as the club have no intention of selling the player. But Haaland’s presence means Alvarez will continue to play a supporting role to the extent that he plays up front.

The Argentina international got plenty of game time last season following the layoff of the injured Kevin De Bruyne. This allowed him to often play with Haaland or behind the striker. But he saw less game time towards the end of the campaign as the Belgian returned to help City win another league title.

Going into the new campaign, unless De Bruyne chooses to leave, Alvarez may consider his options in search of regular game time. If the 24-year-old decides he wants to move elsewhere, it will put City in a difficult position.

Even if De Bruyne leaves, regular game time is still not guaranteed for Alvarez, as Haaland plays in his main position and the wings are already covered. So the temptation to explore a new challenge elsewhere will be strong. City face a battle to keep hold of the player next season as a serious bid from any of Europe’s top sides for the player could see him push for a move to pastures new.