The Atletico board has decided against a move for Alvarez to Barcelona
Atletico Madrid’s Board of Directors on Thursday unanimously supported the club’s position regarding Argentina forward Julian Alvarez, dismissing any discussions with Barcelona and stating there was “zero consideration” of a transfer to the Catalan club.
The statement was made a day after Barca president Joan Laporta expressed the Spanish champions’ interest in signing Alvarez, amidst ongoing speculation regarding the 26-year-old’s future.
Alvarez, instrumental in Argentina’s triumph at the 2022 World Cup, is facing criticism from Atletico fans following rumors of a potential transfer to Barcelona. He faced boos during his warm-up and after entering the match in Atletico’s 2-2 home draw with Villarreal on Sunday.
During the 2026 World Cup, Alvarez expressed that he had communicated with the Madrid club regarding a potential transfer to “fulfil my dream.”
Atletico de Madrid is receptive to standard transfer market discussions when they are carried out in a professional, ethical, and respectful way,” stated Atletico’s Board of Directors in a statement on Thursday. ” We firmly support the club’s earlier position that FC Barcelona did not fulfill these criteria, and therefore, there will be no negotiations, and there is no consideration of an Alvarez transfer to Barcelona.
Atletico stated on Wednesday that there was no possibility of selling Alvarez to Barca, emphasizing, “This situation isn’t about money; it’s about dignity.
Laporta stated that Barcelona’s interest in and offer for Alvarez would persist until the transfer window closes, should Atletico choose to sell. He also stated that Barca had fulfilled the necessary standards in its dealings concerning the Argentine.
Spanish media have also connected Alvarez with a transfer to Premier League champions Arsenal.
Since joining Atletico from Manchester City in 2024 on a six-year contract, Alvarez has netted 49 goals and contributed 17 assists in 107 appearances.
Atletico de Madrid is confident that our player will comprehend the decision and will continue to concentrate on assisting the club in reaching its objectives, just as he has throughout the two seasons he has represented our colors,” Atletico stated in the announcement.
