Atletico Madrid's Board of Directors has unanimously affirmed its decision not to negotiate the transfer of striker Julian Alvarez to FC Barcelona. This comes despite the 26-year-old Argentina international making it clear he wishes to join Barcelona.
The club's board stated that while Atletico is open to standard transfer negotiations, Barcelona failed to meet their requirements for professional, ethical, and respectful conduct. Atletico had previously claimed they are "the only victims" in the transfer saga, accusing Barcelona and Alvarez's representatives of a "campaign of lies and half-truths."
Alvarez was booed by Atletico supporters during a substitute appearance on Sunday and missed a midweek match due to "illness." He is under contract until 2030. Barcelona's only offer for Alvarez so far was €100m (£86m).
Meanwhile, Arsenal continues to monitor the situation and may make a late move for Alvarez, despite understanding his preference for Barcelona. The Gunners reportedly believe Atletico could still sell Alvarez if an acceptable offer is received by the end of the week, with Arsenal potentially offering players like Viktor Gyokeres or Gabriel Jesus as part of a deal.