With the 2026 World Cup drawing to a close, discussions surrounding Julián Álvarez’s future have intensified once again. Barcelona and Atlético Madrid continue to maintain opposing positions regarding the Argentine striker, with neither club showing any willingness to back away from its stance.
Since returning as Barcelona president, Joan Laporta has repeatedly expressed the club’s interest in signing Álvarez. Atlético, however, have consistently insisted that the World Cup finalist remains part of their plans and is not available for transfer ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
The latest developments followed comments from Atlético Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, who declared that the club would not sell the Argentine forward at any price. He also criticized Laporta’s involvement in the ongoing transfer saga.
Laporta defends Barcelona’s position
Speaking at an event organized by the RFEF in the United States before the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, Laporta addressed Gil Marín’s remarks. The Barcelona president confirmed that his club had already submitted an official proposal for the striker.
Laporta explained that Álvarez is a player wanted by Barcelona’s coach, adding that the offer presented to Atlético represents a major commitment from the Catalan club. He described it as a very significant proposal for Barcelona.
Despite the disagreement between the clubs, Laporta chose a measured tone, stressing that he respected the opinions of Atlético’s executives. He also pointed out that football has seen many situations where players initially considered impossible to sign eventually joined Barcelona.
Deadline set as transfer uncertainty continues
Laporta also outlined Barcelona’s approach when players wish to leave a club. He said that if a footballer wants to depart, Barcelona do not believe in preventing such a move, arguing that major clubs cannot keep players who are unhappy.
The Barcelona president emphasized that the current proposal will not remain available indefinitely. According to him, the offer has a reasonable deadline and will remain on the table until the end of the month.
He added that the matter is no longer solely about Barcelona submitting an offer, suggesting that an attractive proposal should also be considered by the receiving club. With Álvarez preparing to play his final match of the 2026 World Cup against Spain, the days immediately after the tournament are expected to be decisive in shaping the next stage of his career.
