Ol' Blighty

Atletico Madrid Demand Swift Resolution in Alvarez Transfer Saga

Club sets Friday deadline as Barcelona's budget constraints and Arsenal's conditional interest complicate striker's future.

A heavy wooden gavel rests on a polished mahogany desk.
Carla Rooney
Carla Rooney
Atletico Madrid demands a resolution to the Julian Alvarez transfer saga by Friday.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirmed a club-to-club offer and ratified it in a personal telephone conversation with Miguel Ángel Gil. Atletico Madrid refuses to conduct business with their LaLiga rivals.
Laporta explained that Atletico had no intention of selling, citing a lack of alternatives to Julián; he conveyed Barcelona's continued interest should Atletico locate a market alternative.
Atletico Madrid released a statement on Wednesday, accusing Barcelona and Alvarez's representatives of orchestrating a 'campaign of lies and half-truths'.
Sources alleged to be from Atletico stated, "The player is being victimised, but the only victim of the Julián case is us. They have harmed us economically and socially."
These sources further asserted, "There is 0% chance of selling him to Barça. This situation is not about money, it is about dignity. A campaign has been created with many lies and half-truths. The only one who pays this is Atletico."
Alvarez's ultimate ambition is reportedly a move to Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Arsenal informed Alvarez's representatives of their interest, and his view on a move to the London club has reportedly softened.
Arsenal is reportedly ready to close a deal for the Atletico Madrid striker, with an internal feeling that they can reach an agreement with Atlético on the fee.
However, Arsenal will only bid if Alvarez decides to open doors to the move; he reportedly needs convincing on joining the club.
The Gunners are prepared to move for Alvarez if there is a 1% chance he is available, remaining attentive to the situation.
Atletico Madrid trained on Wednesday morning ahead of their match against Sevilla; Alvarez reportedly missed the session, citing illness.
During Sunday's game, Alvarez faced boos while warming up, when his name was announced, and upon entering the match in the 66th minute.
A section of the crowd chanted: 'Let him leave once and for all, let him leave.' Atletico boss Diego Simeone stated that club staff decided Alvarez should not acknowledge the fans, and it was not Alvarez's decision.

Let him leave once and for all, let him leave.

Atletico Madrid crowd
Simeone is also understood to be pushing to strengthen Atletico Madrid's attack, reportedly interested in Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus.
The transfer window deadline approaches on 1 September.

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