Overview
- Multiple reports say Atletico sporting director Mateu Alemany is open to a sale of Julián Álvarez to raise cash for other signings, a stance that would mark a change from the club’s public denials.
- Atletico continue to insist Álvarez is not for sale and say they would offer him a new contract and wage rise if he stays, and no formal club-to-club bid has been confirmed.
- Journalist accounts say Álvarez has told associates he prefers to remain in Spain and would only leave Atletico for Barcelona, with his relationship with coach Diego Simeone described as strained.
- Paris Saint-Germain are widely viewed as a major suitor because of their spending power, while Arsenal — bolstered by a bigger transfer budget after winning the Premier League — are open to player-plus-cash or swap proposals including Gabriel Martinelli.
- Atletico’s nine-figure asking price gives them leverage and complicates Barcelona’s pursuit because of LaLiga spending limits, so the next phase will hinge on formal offers or creative swap structures from interested clubs.