Both Arsenal and Barcelona have shown interest in Julian Alvarez this summer transfer period, though Atletico Madrid are resistant to parting with the Argentina forward. The Gunners have the player on their radar, with manager Mikel Arteta known to admire him from his previous spell at Manchester City. However, the striker is reportedly determined to move to the Catalan side.
Barcelona are simultaneously working on a move for Lautaro Martinez from Inter Milan as a potential alternative to pursuing Alvarez, according to sources close to the situation. Meanwhile, Atletico continue to prevent any transfer to their domestic rivals in Barcelona, which has prompted the Spanish club to explore other targets as they begin the campaign lacking a proven centre-forward. Martinez now appears to be coming into consideration.
Spanish outlet El Chiringuito reports that Barcelona’s head coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco are highly enthusiastic about signing Martinez, who is also Alvarez’s international colleague. It is understood that Deco held discussions with the club’s football co-ordinator Bojan along with Martinez’s representative Alejandro Camano in Madrid during the past week.
The same sources indicate that an initial contractual agreement has essentially been reached with Martinez. Barcelona’s opening bid is expected to remain below the €100million mark. Nevertheless, similar to Atletico’s stance on Alvarez, Inter are disinclined to sanction the sale of their striker, who also serves as the Milan club’s captain. Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport emphasises that the club is not considering his departure.
Back in the Spanish capital, supporters have been making their objections clear, with numerous messages around the club’s training complex displaying JULIAN OUT and his number 19 shirt number struck through. Similar sentiments were expressed ahead of yesterday’s La Liga fixture against Malaga. One banner unveiled earlier in the week expressed gratitude for respect shown, described Barca and his circle as having deceived him like a capricious child, and declared our Atleti above all.
Alvarez was absent from the matchday squad at Metropolitano Stadium last night and has not appeared for Atletico since last season.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Atletico accept that circumstances are becoming progressively unsustainable and appear willing to engage in negotiations regarding Alvarez. Viktor Gyokeres could potentially step in for the Argentine, with Diego Simeone apparently willing to accommodate the Swedish striker.
Nevertheless, Alvarez remains fixed on joining Barcelona and apparently harbours no desire to return to English football. Atletico are equally disinclined to negotiate with their domestic rivals, meaning the impasse shows no sign of resolution. Alvarez continues to train with his club, though it remains uncertain whether he will represent them again.