Julian Alvarez, 26, rejected Arsenal's offer and has indicated that his goal is to sign for FC Barcelona. The Argentine striker, who has been the subject of transfer rumors from Atlético de Madrid all summer, has stated that his desire to leave the club stems from the pursuit of trophies and family stability.
According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, Atlético and Arsenal had reached an agreement for the sale of the striker, but Alvarez refused to move to London. The player explained that his decision is based on the difficulty his family would face obtaining visas in the United Kingdom, a situation he experienced during his time at Manchester City, according to AS Diario.
The club, which needs to strengthen its attack, has kept in touch with the player through sporting director Andrea Berta and manager Mikel Arteta, who have attempted to negotiate a potential exit. Despite Arsenal's openness, the relationship between Alvarez and Atlético's coach Diego Simeone has been described as strained, leading some media to suggest that the striker might consider a return to the Premier League.
Atlético de Madrid, on the other hand, fears selling to a La Liga rival. President Miguel Gil Marín has stated that the club wants Alvarez to stay and has criticized the lack of good advisors in the player's career in recent months. In response, Alvarez's agent Fernando Hijalgo posted on Instagram: "Never ask a liar why he lied. To explain it. He'd have to lie again."
Alvarez is expected to return to the squad for the upcoming match against Villarreal, the second fixture of the La Liga season. The team's performance against the rival and fan reaction could influence his decision to leave the club, not only for Barcelona but also for any other option.
In the next matchday, Atlético de Madrid faces Villarreal. Alvarez, who has been a starter in recent games, is expected to return to the squad for the weekend's match, which could set the course for his future.
