Atletico Madrid are prepared to take legal action against Barcelona over their pursuit of Julian Alvarez.
Barcelona have made not hidden their intention of signing Alvarez this summer, and despite that a deal has not been agreed, things took a dramatic turn when the Argentina forward publicly admitted that he wants to leave Atletico Madrid.
Speaking after Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria at the World Cup, Alvarez delivered the strongest indication yet that his time at Atletico Madrid may be coming to an end.
Julián Alvarez looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Argentina and Algeria. (Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images)
“The best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream.”
Alvarez went on to reveal that conversations have already taken place behind the scenes with Atletico Madrid officials.
“This isn’t the time to talk about this, but I can’t hide either. I try to be an honest person, and I’ve already spoken with the club officials and the people I needed to talk to,” he noted, according to AS.
Alvarez comment now seems to have escalated tensions between the two clubs to a new level.
According to AS, Atletico Madrid are now preparing to take their complaints to FIFA’s sporting authorities, believing Barcelona have crossed the line while pursuing a player who remains under contract until 2030.
Club sources speaking to AS did not hide their frustration and pointed to previous disputes involving Barcelona and transfer negotiations.
“We’ve already seen how Barcelona operates in the past.”
Report adds that Atletico remain furious about historical transfer situations involving former striker Antoine Griezmann and believe similar tactics are being repeated.
Club representatives also made their position crystal clear regarding Alvarez’s future, stating,
“There is no amount for which Barcelona can buy Julian, who will not be transferred to Barcelona.”
Atletico officials maintain that only one route exists for Alvarez to leave. “Either they pay the buyout clause (of 500 million) or nothing.”
The Madrid-based club also believes Barcelona have attempted similar strategies in previous transfer windows.
Though there remains no public evidence linking Barcelona directly to the Alvarez’s comments, it’s still unclear if the Spanish giant will submit a bid for their top target.
Atletico are willing to hold on to their star man and if this involves taking legal action against Barcelona, they will be glad to go that route.
Time will tell if Alvarez will fulfill his dream of leaving this summer or would continue in the Spanish capital.
