Barcelona miss out on one of the alternatives to Julián Álvarez

FC Barcelona

The move, according to 'Bild', could be wrapped up in the coming hours. At the Barcelona, the final step would not have been taken for a player who was of interest, but who never ended up being an absolute priority within the club's attacking planning.

Asllani's situation had gained weight in recent weeks within Barcelona's sporting department. The forward, with a release clause set at 29 million euros, fit the projection and price in a difficult market, although the club maintained another roadmap to strengthen the centre-forward position.

A valued option, but not a priority

Blaugrana sources admit that the Hoffenheim player's name was worked on internally, with analysis of the pros and cons. Hansi Flick had positive reports on the forward and Barcelona also knew the player's willingness, who viewed the prospect of wearing blue and red favourably.

The priority, however, remained finding an 'immediate impact '9'. In that scenario, Julián Álvarez captured much of the club's attention. Only after checking how difficult that route was did other options open up, and that's when Asllani began to win support among part of the coaching staff.

The calendar has also played a role. With the arrival of August, Asllani would have decided to accept Leipzig's proposal, a club used to backing young players with room to grow. In Germany, the operation is considered on track unless there is a last-minute twist.

The forward would already have stepped away from Hoffenheim pre-season to sort out his future. The deal would be around 30 million euros and the contract would be signed for four seasons, according to information coming from Germany.

Asllani had not hidden his sympathy for Barcelona and in recent months he left several winks on social media. The Blaugrana club even sounded out the possibility with his entourage, but if his move to Leipzig is confirmed, the outcome will be between the player's wait and Barcelona's decision not to push ahead with the operation right now.