Barcelona have reportedly placed a further two Premier League forwards on their shortlist of potential targets.
Earlier this week, it was alleged that the Catalan giants are prepared to do what is necessary to secure a deal for Manchester City's Erling Haaland.
With the Norway international almost being halfway through a five-year contract at the Etihad Stadium, developments of some kind regarding his future are anticipated.
As it stands, though, there is nothing to suggest that the 24-year-old is ready to end his time in the Premier League, where he has already set multiple scoring records and is eyeing a third successive league title.
That leaves Barcelona officials in a position where they must assess their options as they bid to find a long-term alternative to veteran Robert Lewandowski.
Although he has netted 12 times in La Liga and the Champions League in 2024-25, Lewandowski is now 36 years of age and in the twilight of his career.
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What are Barcelona's Premier League alternatives?
According to The Sun, Barcelona have identified each of Newcastle United's Alexander Isak and Liverpool's Darwin Nunez as backup choices to Haaland.
Isak has been a revelation since his big-money move to St James' Park in 2022, contributing 32 goals and five assists from his 57 appearances in the Premier League.
Over an almost identical timeframe, Nunez has been less prolific in England's top flight, chipping in with 21 goals and 11 assists from 69 outings.
Nevertheless, his overall return of 34 strikes and 18 assists from 103 matches goes under the radar, particularly when playing second fiddle to Diogo Jota this season.
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Is either deal realistic?
While Barcelona view both players as 'potential marquee signings', president Joan Laporta would need to get the club's finances in order before being able to facilitate such a big-money acquisition.
Both Isak and Nunez are on contracts until 2028 and their respective clubs would realistically demand in excess of £70m if Barcelona made their move.
Of the two, Newcastle may be most tempted to contemplate a sale if they can find a cheaper alternative and have money left over to strengthen other parts of their squad.
Darren Plant
