Overview
- Joan Laporta confirmed on Wednesday that Barcelona submitted a formal offer for Julián Álvarez and that he personally approved the proposal.
- Atlético’s board published a communiqué on Thursday refusing to negotiate with Barcelona and saying it filed a complaint with FIFA over alleged improper contact with the player’s representatives.
- Arsenal has emerged as the primary alternative, with media reports citing offers around €120 million and a proposed package of €100 million plus Viktor Gyökeres under consideration.
- Álvarez has been visibly unsettled, receiving boos at the Metropolitano and missing training, which Atlético officials say has raised concerns about the player’s wellbeing.
- With the transfer window closing in days, Atlético says it will consider non‑Barcelona bids while Barcelona risks waiting until January if Alvarez does not move, leaving the outcome uncertain.