Spanish newspaper Diario AS has published an official statement from Atletico Madrid regarding the potential transfer of Julian Alvarez to Barcelona, following the player’s public announcement of his desire to leave the Rojiblancos.
Alvarez shocked Atletico officials with explosive post-match comments after Argentina’s victory over Austria at the 2026 World Cup, clearly stating he wants out of the club to fulfill his “dream.” Multiple sources have confirmed that Alvarez’s ultimate dream is to join Barcelona, with the Catalan club already reaching a total agreement on personal terms with the Argentine international.
Atletico Madrid immediately fired back via AS, stating: “We have seen Barcelona’s methods in the past. When we were playing for Champions League qualification against Juventus, they were promising commissions to his sister, his family, and even the player himself.”
The Madrid-based club added fiercely: “There is no amount of money Barcelona can offer to buy Julian because he will not move to Barcelona, no matter what happens.”
The statement concluded with absolute rigidity: “It’s either the €500 million release clause or nothing. Everyone knows Barcelona is a deceitful club, but this time they have run into a club that will not let things slide.”
Furthermore, Cadena COPE reported via an official Atletico source that the club now considers this matter a “matter of honor.” Alvarez will only be allowed to leave for a club other than Barcelona; otherwise, his ultimate fate will be the bench.
Reports suggest that Atletico is willing to negotiate a swap deal with Arsenal involving Alvarez and Viktor Gyokeres. Surprisingly, the 25-year-old forward is reportedly resisting this move, reiterating that he only wants Barcelona. Meanwhile, the Catalan giants are planning a new official bid between €120 million and €130 million, hoping to persuade Atletico. However, sources suggest Atletico Madrid is already planning to file an official complaint with FIFA against Barcelona for tapping up the player without permission, in direct violation of international regulations.
