Barcelona is waiting for Julián Álvarez

Barcelona is still awaiting Julián Álvarez's decision, who has already expressed his desire to leave Atlético de Madrid during the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine forward believes that his cycle at Atlético de Madrid is over, but the management would remain firm in their stance, with a contract valid until 2030 and a release clause that complicates any departure. From the City of Barcelona, they emphasize that the interest is real, although they will only proceed if Atlético accepts a reasonable price.

Flick's plan

The departure of Robert Lewandowski left the team without a natural center forward and, despite the reinforcements on the wings with Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, Hansi Flick insists that Álvarez would be the missing piece to complete the attack. The German coach believes that his mobility and pressing ability fit perfectly into the Blaugrana scheme. That's why he hopes the player will make a new gesture before the start of the preseason, on August 10, to force the negotiation and speed up the process.

Tensions and open market

Álvarez claims to feel deceived by Miguel Ángel Marín, whom he accuses of having promised to facilitate his departure. Marín denies that version and the Atlético leadership maintains its position, only accepting a sale if the price matches their valuation. Barcelona, for its part, would not be willing to exceed 100 million euros, which creates a deadlock in the negotiations. With more than a month of the transfer market ahead, the saga can still take unexpected turns. The Argentine's desire to wear the blaugrana jersey is clear, but it all depends on whether he decides to increase the pressure on Atlético or if the Madrid club softens its stance.

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