Atlético Madrid have ruled out the sale of Julian Alvarez to Barcelona in a new statement
Atlético Madrid have ruled out selling Julian Alvarez to Barcelona, saying there will be no talks with their La Liga rivals over the Argentine forward.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta again spoke publicly of the club’s desire to sign Alvarez on Wednesday, but Atlético responded by saying they would not consider a move.
“Atlético de Madrid is open to standard transfer market negotiations as long as they are conducted in a professional, ethical and respectful manner,” the club said on Thursday.
“We fully support the club’s previously communicated position that FC Barcelona has not met these requirements and as a result no negotiations will take place and Alvarez’s transfer to Barcelona is not being considered.”
Atletico added that they believe Alvarez will understand their decision and remain focused on helping the club achieve its goals.
The 26-year-old did not train on Wednesday or Thursday after falling ill on Tuesday after not sleeping well. His absence was not related to uncertainty about his future.
Alvarez wants to join Barcelonabut his desire to leave Atlético has increased tensions around the club. He was booed by the fans after Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Villarreal.
ALVAREZ’S TWO OPTIONS
With Barcelona now ruled out, Atlético pundit and journalist Ruben Uria believes Alvarez actually has two options: stay at Madrid or consider a move to Arsenal.
“My interpretation of this statement is that Atlético is making it clear to the public that they will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances,” Uria said. “It’s quite clear, Julian will decide. London or stay in Madrid.”
Arsenal are interested in Alvarez but continue to believe a deal is highly unlikely before the transfer deadline. The Premier League club would also need a strong boost from Alvarez before opening talks with Atletico.
Dialogue continues between Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta and Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin. The pair previously worked together at Atlético and have remained close.
ATLETICO LOOK AT THE ALTERNATIVES
Atletico are making contingency plans in case Alvarez leaves and are looking for possible replacements. One player on their radar is Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres. Atletico want to find out how open Arsenal would be to selling the Sweden international.
Nicolas Jackson was also interested, 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 stay at Atlético and try to mend his relationship with the club’s supporters or push for a move before the transfer window closes.
Atlético do not want the situation to continue until the deadline.
So far, the club has made its position clear: Barcelona will not be given the opportunity to negotiate for Alvarez.
– The end
Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
27 Aug 2026 18:20 IST