Atletico Madrid have acknowledged that Julian Alvarez 'has a dream' to leave the club, but tensions are rising with Barcelona over the Arsenal target. The Spanish giants have made Alvarez their key summer target and have already seen at least one bid rejected, with the Argentine forward keen on a move.
Release Clause and Arsenal Interest
Atletico insist that the only way Alvarez can leave for Camp Nou is if Barcelona triggers his €500 million (£431m) release clause, a figure that has opened the door for Arsenal. Reports in Spain claim the Gunners could offer Viktor Gyokeres in part-exchange for Alvarez, potentially bypassing the hefty fee.
Alvarez has not hidden his desire to leave, telling ESPN earlier this week: 'I don't think it's the right moment to talk, but I also don't want to hide. I try to be an honest person. I spoke with the people at [Atlético] who I needed to speak with. I think the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream.'
Atletico's Response and Legal Threats
Responding to the player's comments, Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin said: 'Julian has a dream, and we at Atletico have dreams too. It’s true that he’s spoken with us, but it’s also true that he’s fully aware of our position because we’ve been very clear. Atletico doesn’t want to transfer his rights. He’s a great player, and we’re very proud that he plays for us.'
Atletico are now ready to officially report Barcelona to FIFA over alleged illegal negotiations. Gil Marin explained: 'Our responsibility is to defend the interests of Atletico Madrid, and that is why we are going to file a complaint with FIFA against Barcelona for negotiating with a player who had a valid contract during the protected period.'
The transfer saga continues as Arsenal watch closely, with Alvarez's dream potentially leading to a Premier League move.
