Julian Alvarez Transfer uncertainty has intensified at Atletico Madrid, with coach Diego Simeone confirming that the Argentine striker will miss the club’s LaLiga opener against Malaga amid continued interest from Barcelona.
The 26-year-old forward continues to be embroiled in a transfer battle between Atletico and Barcelona, with Spanish outlets suggesting that he could join the Catalan giants. Alvarez has been transferred to Atletico in 2024 for a fee of €75m ($86.8m).
The Argentina international has reportedly made it clear that he wants to move, telling reporters during the World Cup that he had spoken with Atletico about his desire to “fulfil his dream” of moving away. Barcelona have been the top destination according to reports.
But, Atletico have made a strong statement about the matter. In the past, Club’s CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin had said they would not pay even €200 million for Alvarez if he came to the Santiago side, sending a clear message as to how much the club values one of their essential attackers.
Simeone likewise emphasized the power of the club hierarchy in regard to Alvarez. The Atletico coach has stated clearly that the case of Gil Marin is the last word from the club and there’s not much doubt left regarding Atletico’s present transfer policy.
Alvarez’s absence from LaLiga’s opening match is making for another intriguing transfer saga. Atletico will have to deal with the sporting consequences as the club and player continue to be subject to speculation about what’s next.
The transfer window is on-going and Barcelona’s reported interest means that the situation is likely to remain active. Atletico’s focus is on preserving a significant investment and keeping a striker who came in with a number of expectations.
