Atlético Madrid are said to be willing to negotiate a sale of Julián Álvarez – but on one condition: he will not be sold to Barcelona. The problem? It is only to Barcelona that the 26-year-old wants to leave.
Álvarez has been adamant that he wants to sign for Barcelona all summer. Atlético, on the other hand, have insisted that they will not sell the star striker to a direct rival, and have refused to enter into talks – which has infuriated the player. – The Spanish capital club has been clear that they are not selling at all this summer.
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Who blinks first!
Now, Mundo Deportivo reports that Atlético have changed their attitude – but only partially. They will allow Álvarez to leave the club, but only if it is not to Barcelona. Instead, they are willing to negotiate with Arsenal and should agree already on the framework for a deal.
The problem? Álvarez is reportedly “not interested” in a move to the Premier League champions. It’s only Barcelona that counts.
“The situation is unsustainable”
Álvarez’s situation at Atlético is now described as “unsustainable”, and the club acknowledges this. But they are just as adamant that they will not sell to Barcelona – which only adds to the striker’s dissatisfaction.
Álvarez spent two years at Manchester City before being sold to Atlético in 2024 for €95 million. He does not want to return to England, preferring the climate and culture of Spain.
Barcelona are considering other options
Barcelona are still hoping that Atlético will be forced to change their stance, as Álvarez continues to burn bridges for a transfer. But the Catalans are also considering other goals.
One player who could be relevant is Viktor Gyökeres. According to Spanish media, the Swede wants to leave Arsenal and has made an offer to Barcelona – while the Gunners are reportedly willing to include him in talks about Álvarez.
With Atlético refusing to sell to Barcelona, and Álvarez refusing to go to Arsenal, the transfer saga is at a standstill. The question is who blinks first.
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