Agent Plays Down Julián Álvarez Exit Rumors as Barcelona Links Persist

Overview

• Agent Fernando Hidalgo told Calciomercato, via Sport, that reports Álvarez rejected a new Atlético Madrid deal are false and called the claims “fanciful hypotheses.”
• Álvarez remains tied to a long contract with roughly four and a half years left, and his release clause is reported at €500m, with Atlético keen to keep him.
• A Sport report relayed by Football España said Álvarez would consider a move next summer if Atlético fail to win a title this season, a claim not confirmed by the club or player.
• Barcelona are credited with admiration as they eye a future striker to succeed Robert Lewandowski, but salary-cap limits and Atlético’s valuation make any move difficult.
• Since joining from Manchester City in 2024, Álvarez has scored 36 goals in 68 games, yet Atlético finished last season without a trophy and have started this campaign poorly in La Liga and the Champions League, with Liverpool also mentioned as a potential suitor.