Atletico Madrid Defends Julian Alvarez

Atletico Madrid's coach Diego Simeone and CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin have declared that the club will not sell forward Julian Alvarez during the ongoing transfer window, amid interest from Barcelona. The 26-year-old has been linked with potential moves to Arsenal and Real Madrid. Last month, Atletico filed a complaint to FIFA over alleged approaches by Barcelona.

"I think the situation is very clear. The club has made a decision that (CEO) Miguel Angel Gil Marin has explained very well," Simeone told reporters before the pre-season friendly against Manchester City in Seoul.

Simeone added: "From a sporting perspective, we're very happy to have a footballer like Julian... We will help him continue to grow, continue to improve and continue delivering the best - which has been a tremendous amount - that he has given us over the last two years."

Alvarez is due to rejoin the Atletico squad in two days' time after taking a break following Argentina's World Cup final loss to Spain. While on World Cup duty, the 26-year-old said he