Barcelona secured a 5-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano on Monday night, just 24 hours before the transfer deadline. Raphinha, playing as a makeshift No 9, scored two goals, as did Lamine Yamal, who reportedly returned to his top form.
Despite the win, Barcelona are still actively seeking a centre-forward following the summer departures of Ferran Torres, Robert Lewandowski, and Marcus Rashford. Coach Hansi Flick expressed satisfaction with the £8.6m arrival of Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal, calling him a "top striker."
However, Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez remains a key target for Barcelona. Atlético Madrid has stated there is "zero consideration of an Álvarez transfer to Barcelona," despite Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly expressing strong interest in the player.