Barcelona target Julian Alvarez reveals transfer wish: I want to fulfill my dream
Argentina striker Julian Alvarez has revealed he wants to leave Atletico Madrid, saying a move would help him “fulfill his dream” amid reported interest from Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old then spoke publicly about his future for the first time Argentina’s victory over Austria 2:0 on Monday at the World Cup. The win saw the defending champion advance to the knockout stages, while Alvarez made his second appearance in the tournament as a substitute after recovering from an ankle injury.
Alvarez has admitted he has already held talks with Atlético Madrid over his future and believes a move would be the best outcome for all parties involved.
“I spoke to the people at the club, to those I needed to speak to, and I think the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfill my dream,” Alvarez told reporters.
“It’s not time to talk about it, but I can’t hide it either. I try to be an honest person.”
The striker has not revealed his preferred destination, but his comments are likely to fuel speculation about his future. Spanish and Argentinian media linked him with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain Atlético Madrid have reportedly rejected a €150m bid from rivals Real Madrid earlier this month.
However, Alvarez indicated that a solution is not imminent.
“It is not known when it will be resolved,” he said.
The uncertainty comes despite Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo recently insisting the club had received no indication from Alvarez that he wanted to leave. Cerezo also criticized rival clubs’ attempts to lure the striker away, reiterating that Alvarez will only be able to leave if his €500m release clause is met.
Barcelona are tipped to lead the race for the Argentina international as they prepare for a possible move away from experienced striker Roberto Lewandowski. Reports from Spain suggest that the Catalan giants have already tabled a bid worth €100m and could come back with a better offer after the World Cup.
The Catalan club have already bolstered their attack this summer with the signing of Anthony Gordon and are said to be favoring a move for Alvarez as their next big move.
However, Atlético remain adamant that the former Manchester City striker is not for sale.
Alvarez joined Atlético Madrid from Manchester City in the summer of 2024 in a deal worth around €95m (£81.5m). Since his arrival in Spain, he has established himself as one of Diego Simeone’s most important players, scoring 49 goals and providing 17 assists in 106 appearances in all competitions.
While his domestic numbers have dipped in 2025-26, with eight goals in La Liga after scoring 17 in his debut season, Alvarez has enjoyed an excellent run in Europe. He scored 10 goals in the Champions League as Atletico reached the semi-finals before suffering elimination by Arsenal.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
23 Jun 2026 07:00 IST