Overview
- The striker rejoined Atlético Madrid training on Monday and is scheduled to meet one-on-one with Diego Simeone before talking with club executives about his future.
- Álvarez has repeatedly said he wants to leave Atlético and prefers a move to Barcelona over offers from Arsenal and PSG.
- Atlético has publicly resisted the approach, filed a complaint with FIFA and the Spanish federation over contacts during the protected period, and says it will not negotiate unless a suitor triggers his €500 million release clause.
- Barcelona has already submitted at least one bid and is reported to be preparing an improved formal offer of about €120 million if Atlético agrees to open talks.
- What happens in the forthcoming meetings could force a quick shift because the transfer window is closing and Álvarez prefers to stay in Spain, which would narrow Barcelona’s time and negotiating margin.