Barcelona Negotiates for Julián Álvarez, Prepares Offer for Atlético

Barcelona has intensified its efforts in the transfer market. On Wednesday afternoon, the club unofficially finalized the signing of Anthony Gordon and later advanced its negotiations with Julián Álvarez during a meeting with his agent. The Catalan club is ambitious in its planning for the 2026-27 season, particularly as it seeks success in the Champions League.

The club has been interested in Julián Álvarez for several months, and that interest remains strong. This pursuit is not diminished by the arrival of Gordon, who is set to arrive in Barcelona today for his medical examination. The Argentine international's willingness to wear the blue and garnet colors is crucial in maintaining communication between the parties. On Wednesday, Deco, along with several executives close to Laporta, held a summit with the agent of the Atlético forward, reaffirming both sides' desire to reach an agreement.

However, Barcelona has yet to approach Atlético Madrid officially regarding the player's transfer, aware that the Atlético executives are not inclined to facilitate his exit. Nevertheless, Atlético is well aware of Barcelona's interest in Julián Álvarez, having been informed of it since before Christmas, though no formal offer has been made. The player expressed his intention not to sign a renewal for €10 million per season before going on vacation, indicating his desire to join the project under Flick. He is convinced of playing for Barcelona, and Deco assured him yesterday that he remains a target despite Gordon's signing.

Once it's confirmed that both Barça and the player—who has a contract with Atlético until June 2030 and a release clause of €500 million—wish to link up, the Catalan institution will contact Atlético. However, Atlético intends to keep Julián and has stated that the operation will not be concluded for less than €150 million. Additionally, they do not plan to include other players to lower the transfer fee.