Atlético rejects offers for Julián Álvarez; CEO says player not for sale

Atlético de Madrid's CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has emphatically stated that Julián Álvarez is not for sale, rejecting any offers including a reported €100 million bid from FC Barcelona and even potential bids of €150 or €200 million. In a video released by the club, Gil Marín said, "No aceptamos la oferta de 100 millones de euros ni aceptaremos una de 150 ni una de 200" Source: Clarin. This firm stance comes in response to Barcelona president Joan Laporta's public comments that the club's offer for Álvarez was not unlimited, to which Gil Marín retorted, "Nuestra respuesta sí que es infinita: no queremos transferirlo" Source: Excelsior.

The player's position

Álvarez, currently with Argentina at the World Cup, has expressed his desire to leave. On June 23, he stated, "Lo mejor para todos es una transferencia y quiero cumplir mi sueño" Source: La Voz. Gil Marín acknowledged the player's comments but attributed them to poor advice, saying, "Julián ha estado mal asesorado desde que terminó la temporada" Source: Milenio. He remains confident that Álvarez will stay and continue performing.

The ongoing tension

Despite Atlético's firm stance, Laporta insists the operation is still alive. The Barcelona president said, "El jugador se ha pronunciado y el tema está vivo... Está claro que el jugador quiere cambiar de aires" Source: Infobae. However, sources note that Álvarez has a contract until 2030 with a €500 million release clause, making a transfer difficult without a massive bid Source: ABC. Both Barcelona and Real Madrid have had offers rejected this summer Source: El Confidencial.