Alvarez is reportedly a top target for LaLiga champion Barca, which is aiming to reshape its attack and has already confirmed the signing of Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano reported that Barca was willing to spend up to €100 million ($162.3 million) on the Argentina international.

However, Romano suggested Atletico view Alvarez as being worth more than that, albeit he also claimed the forward wished to make the move.

In response, Atletico used its official social media accounts to post AI-generated images of Barcelona players Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Raphinha wearing Rojiblancos kits, sniping at Romano's use of a post he had previously shared in relation to Alvarez.

Alvarez joined Atletico from Manchester City in 2024.

He has scored 49 goals in 106 games for Atletico, outperforming his 38.9 expected goals (xG), while also providing 17 assists.