Atletico Madrid have ruled out selling Julian Alvarez to Barcelona, saying there will be no negotiations with their La Liga rivals over the Argentine striker.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta again spoke publicly about the club’s desire to sign Alvarez on Wednesday, but Atletico responded with a statement making clear that they will not consider a transfer.
“Atletico de Madrid is open to standard transfer market negotiations when conducted in a professional, ethical and respectful manner,” the club said on Thursday.
“We fully stand behind the club’s previously communicated position that FC Barcelona failed to meet these requirements and, as a result, there will not be any negotiation and there is zero consideration of an Alvarez transfer to Barcelona.”
Atletico added that they trust Alvarez will understand their decision and remain focused on helping the club achieve its objectives.
The 26-year-old did not train on Wednesday or Thursday after falling ill following a poor night’s sleep on Tuesday. His absence was not related to the uncertainty over his future.
Alvarez wants to join Barcelona, but his desire to leave Atletico has increased tensions around the club. He was booed by supporters after Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Villarreal.
ALVAREZ’S TWO OPTIONS
With Barcelona now ruled out, Atletico expert and journalist Ruben Uria believes Alvarez effectively has two choices: stay in Madrid or consider a move to Arsenal.
“My interpretation of the statement is that Atletico is making it public that it will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances,” Uria said. “It’s very clear, Julian decides. London or staying in Madrid.”
Arsenal remain interested in Alvarez but continue to believe a deal is very unlikely before the transfer deadline. The Premier League club would also need strong encouragement from Alvarez before opening negotiations with Atletico.
There has been ongoing dialogue between Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta and Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin. The pair previously worked together at Atletico and remain close.
ATLETICO LOOK AT ALTERNATIVES
Atletico are making contingency plans in case Alvarez leaves and are looking at possible replacements. One of the players on their radar is Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres. Atletico want to establish how open Arsenal would be to selling the Sweden international.
They were also interested in Nicolas Jackson, but the Chelsea forward is heading to Aston Villa. The next 24 to 48 hours could be important in determining Alvarez’s future.
He must decide whether to remain at Atletico and try to repair his relationship with the club’s supporters or push for a move before the transfer window closes.
Atletico do not want the situation to continue until deadline day.
For now, the club has made its position clear: Barcelona will not be given the opportunity to negotiate for Alvarez.
– Ends
