Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has publicly stated that he wants a transfer away from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid.
Alvarez played the last half-hour of Argentina’s World Cup 2026 win against Austria on Monday, watching on at close quarters as Lionel Messi extended his newly minted lead as the World Cup’s record goalscorer.
The former Manchester City and River Plate striker has been linked consistently with a move in the summer transfer window, with Spanish champions Barcelona and city rivals Real Madrid at the forefront of the speculation along with Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain.
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Alvarez ‘can’t hide’ desire to move to Barcelona
Alvarez’s name got wrapped up in the politics of Real Madrid’s recent presidential election. Real Madrid claimed that they’d submitted a monster bid for the World Cup winner and Atletico openly laughed off Florentino Perez’s supposed interest.
In a bizarre statement posted on X – of course – Atleti issued ‘clarifications’ on the matter including the ‘clarification’ that they had not considered any offer for Alvarez.
Barcelona’s interest appears to be more substantial. According to The Athletic: “Alvarez is Barcelona’s No 1 transfer target and the Catalans are expected to return with a new offer in the coming weeks.”
Speaking to ESPN after Argentina’s 2-0 win against Austria, Alvarez left no room for confusion when it comes to his plans for the future.
“This isn’t the time to talk about this but I can’t hide it,” said the 26-year-old, talking about this. “I try to be an honest person. I spoke with Atletico de Madrid, and I think a transfer is the best option. I want to fulfil my dream.”
Alvarez joined Atletico from Man City two years ago. After 20 goals in 67 Premier League matches, the former River Plate youngster has continued to thrive in front of goal. He has scored 49 times in 106 appearances in all competitions for Los Rojiblancos, the fruits of a relationship that appears to be coming to an end.
Premier League champions Arsenal were also understood to have been keen on the Argentinian, whose move to the Metropolitano was handled to a significant degree by Andrea Berta, now the Gunners’ sporting director.
All indications are now that Barcelona are in the driving seat. Moving within La Liga would allow Alvarez to continue his efforts to become a league champion in a third different country as well as adding to the Champions League he won under Pep Guardiola three years ago.
He scored four goals in Qatar as Argentina won the World Cup for a third time in 2022. If Messi allows anyone else to get a look in on the goalscoring front, Alvarez will be eager to add to his 14 international goals in North America this summer.
Atletico Madrid are yet to deliver a withering response to his comments.