FOOTBALL TRANSFERS

Atlético Madrid rule out any talks with Barcelona over Julián Álvarez

Atléti says it hopes Argentine striker "will understand the decision, focusing on working in the best possible way to help the club achieve its objectives."

Atlético Madrid's Argentine forward Julián Álvarez is pictured amid boos from home supporters during the Spanish league football match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Villarreal CF at Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid on August 23, 2026. FC Barcelona are still looking for a striker after Atletico Madrid rejected their bid to sign Julian Alvarez, AFP reports. Foto: Pierre-Philippe MARCOU / AFP
27 August 2026

Atlético Madrid hardened their stance over a possible sale of striker Julián Álvarez to Barcelona on Thursday, ruling out any negotiations with the Spanish champions.

The Atlético board "unanimously expressed their full support" for the club's decision not to negotiate Álvarez's transfer to Barcelona, although they indicated they are not closed off to other approaches, with Arsenal linked with the Argentina international in recent days.

"There has not been and there will not be any negotiation with them [Barcelona] regarding Álvarez's transfer," said Atlético in a statement.

The club said it was "open to negotiations inherent to the transfer market," but only "in an ethical and professional manner and with respect between clubs."

Atlético said Barcelona had not met those requirements, without providing further details. The Rojiblancos previously reported Barcelona to FIFA and the Spanish football federation for their pursuit of Alvarez.

Atlético said they are "convinced" Álvarez "will understand the decision, focusing on working in the best possible way to help the club achieve its objectives."

The forward missed training for the second day running on Wednesday because of a reported illness, after being jeered by the club's fans during Atlético's 2-2 La Liga draw against Villarreal on Sunday.

Álvarez said in July during the World Cup that a transfer would be "best" for everyone.

Atlético's statement came a day after Barcelona president Joan Laporta said his club remained hopeful of signing 2022 World Cup winner Álvarez before the transfer window closes.

Laporta said Barça still had an offer, reported to be around 100 million euros (US$116 million), on the table for the 26-year-old.

Barcelona have made Álvarez their prime target as they seek to strengthen their attack after the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres.

Álvarez joined Atlético from Manchester City in 2024 in a deal worth up to 95 million euros (US$111 million).

 

– AFP

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