One of Spain's top football analysts believes Barcelona's eventual replacement for Robert Lewandowski is already obvious - and his name is Julián Álvarez.

Julio Maldonado, widely known as "Maldini," said on the "Despejados" podcast that the Argentine striker is the ideal No. 9 to take over when Lewandowski's contract expires in June 2026, just before the Polish star turns 38.

"Julián Álvarez," Maldini responded confidently when asked who Barça should target to lead their next era. He noted that Álvarez, currently shining under Diego Simeone with nine goals in his first 15 matches this season, is exactly the type of elite forward who fits Barça's high standards.

Alvarez is the ideal candidate for Barcelona

"That's not crazy to think," he added, suggesting Álvarez could form a deadly trio with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.

Other names have surfaced in the debate - including Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen and breakout LaLiga sensation Etta Eyong of Levante - but Maldini dismissed those options as too risky for a club seeking a "consolidated" superstar to replace a proven goal machine like Lewandowski.

"I don't see Laporta saying the new Champions League project will be built around Eyong," Maldini said, though co-host MisterChip joked that with Barça's president, anything is possible.

Barcelona will have to open their checkbook

Landing Álvarez wouldn't be easy. Barcelona would need to spend big and improve their finances to meet La Liga's 1/1 salary rule - a major hurdle before pursuing a transfer of that magnitude.

Still, Maldini insists: "I'm convinced Barcelona will go for Julián."