Atlético Madrid have made it clear that striker Julián Álvarez will not be leaving the club for Barcelona, with the Spanish side insisting they are determined to keep the Argentine forward beyond the current transfer window.
Atlético Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín publicly addressed the speculation surrounding Álvarez’s future, stating that both the club and the player’s representatives are aware of the club’s position.
“Our position is clear, the club’s position is clear. We have made it known to the player, his representatives and the president of Barcelona,” Gil said.
The Atlético chief executive stressed that the club believes the Metropolitano is the ideal place for Álvarez to continue his career and described the 25-year-old as the perfect striker for the team.
“I have absolutely no doubt that Atlético is the right place in the world for Julián, and that Julián is the perfect centre-forward for Atlético Madrid. We want to keep him,” he added.
Barcelona have reportedly shown interest in signing the former Manchester City striker as they look to strengthen their attacking options. However, Atlético’s latest statement appears to have ended hopes of a possible deal, at least for now.
Gil also responded to comments from Barcelona president Joan Laporta, who had reportedly indicated that the club’s offer for Álvarez was not unlimited. The Atlético CEO made it clear that his club’s response would remain firm regardless of the amount offered.
“I recently heard President Laporta say that the offer he made to Atlético Madrid was not unlimited. My only response is that our answer to Barcelona is unlimited,” Gil said.
He further revealed that Atlético had already rejected a reported €100 million offer and would not consider selling Álvarez even if Barcelona or another club submitted a higher bid.
“We did not accept an offer of €100 million, and we will not accept one of €150 million or even €200 million for Julián Álvarez. We want to keep Julián,” he stated.
Álvarez joined Atlético Madrid from Manchester City and quickly became an important figure in Diego Simeone’s squad. His goals, work rate and versatility have made him one of the club’s key attacking players.
