Julián Álvarez still waiting on FC Barcelona
The Julián Álvarez saga continues to set the Spanish transfer window alight. According to TeamTalk, the 26-year-old striker has made FC Barcelona his top priority and has reportedly already agreed on the terms of his future contract with the Catalan club. Despite this agreement, the transfer is far from sealed.
Barcelona sets a deadline, Atlético remains firm
TeamTalk also reports that Barça president Joan Laporta is unwilling to let negotiations drag on indefinitely. The Catalan club has apparently set an August 10 deadline to close the deal. If no agreement is reached by then, Barcelona is expected to drop the pursuit and turn its attention to other attacking targets.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the Colchoneros are preparing for Julián Álvarez’s return to training and still count on him for the upcoming season. The Madrid club reportedly has no intention of reopening talks, despite Barça’s persistent interest and a €100 million offer, a figure Barcelona does not want to exceed.
Our analysis
This saga now goes far beyond just financial considerations. The main obstacle isn’t Barcelona’s offer, but Atlético Madrid’s determination to keep one of its key players. With a bid already at €100 million, Barça has nearly reached its limit, leaving little room for maneuver.
August 10 could prove decisive. If no compromise is reached before the deadline, Barcelona will have to quickly activate alternative options to avoid further delaying their transfer business. Meanwhile, Julián Álvarez will also have to manage his relationship with Atlético supporters if he is ultimately forced to stay, after a summer filled with speculation about his future.