Transfer News: Julián Álvarez Trains with Atlético as Exit Hopes Fade

Blocked by Atlético and overtaken by Gabriel Jesus at Barcelona, Julián Álvarez must choose between Arsenal and a tense season in Madrid.

Long regarded as one of FC Barcelona’s leading summer targets, Julián Álvarez now appears set to remain in Madrid unless the transfer window delivers one final surprise. Atlético Madrid have consistently refused to negotiate with their La Liga rivals. After missing several sessions, the Argentine striker returned to full team training and was still working with Diego Simeone’s squad on Tuesday.

Gabriel Jesus all but ends Barcelona’s pursuit

Gabriel Jesus’ imminent signing completely changes the situation. The Brazilian has arrived in Catalonia to complete his move from Arsenal in a deal reportedly worth €10 million, with around €4 million potentially due in add-ons. With Barcelona investing in Jesus and expected to hand him a contract running until 2029, the club have virtually no room to launch a late bid for Álvarez. Barring an extraordinary twist, the World Cup winner’s proposed move to Barcelona is over, at least for this summer.

Remaining in Madrid would not be straightforward, however. Álvarez was booed when he entered the match against Villarreal and jeered during several of his touches by sections of the Metropolitano crowd. At full-time, he headed directly towards the tunnel without acknowledging the supporters. The forward remains under contract until June 2030 and is valued at €120 million, but his sporting importance is undeniable. He has recorded 49 goals and 17 assists in 107 appearances for Atlético, including 20 goals and nine assists last season.

Arsenal offer a logical escape despite Álvarez’s reservations

The remaining exit route leads to Arsenal. Álvarez had previously rejected that possibility despite holding talks with Mikel Arteta, while also ruling out a return to Manchester City. Yet the London project offers several clear advantages: a prominent role, a squad capable of competing for major honours and a league he already understands. During two seasons with City, the Argentine registered 36 goals and 18 assists across 103 matches, while winning both the Premier League and the Champions League.

His mobility, intensity and ability to lead the press would fit Arteta’s football particularly well. However, his transfer-window nightmare at the Metropolitano now appears likely to end with him staying in Spain. Álvarez would then need to rebuild his relationship with the supporters and turn an uncomfortable situation into a fresh start.

Read also : Trabzonspor: Did Mohamed Salah Make the Wrong Choice?

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

Related teams and leagues

Atletico Madrid

Barcelona

Arsenal

LaLiga Spain

English Premier League