Barcelona maintain Julian Alvarez pursuit despite Simeone’s ‘not for sale’ stance

Barcelona have not changed their plans to sign Julian Alvarez despite Atletico de Madrid manager Diego Simeone insisting that the Argentina striker is not available during the summer transfer window.

Simeone has stressed that Alvarez remains under contract with Atletico de Madrid and will not leave the club this summer. However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona continue to view the 26-year-old as their priority target to strengthen the centre-forward position.

The club’s sporting leadership, led by Deco and head coach Hansi Flick, remains keen to bring Alvarez to Camp Nou. Barcelona are attempting to persuade Atletico to begin formal negotiations, with the Catalan club expected to prepare a new offer in an effort to move the deal forward.

The coming week could prove decisive for the proposed transfer. Alvarez is expected to meet Atletico’s management after returning from holiday, when his position and future at the Madrid club will be discussed.

Barcelona are also working on the departure of Ferran Torres as they seek to create the financial flexibility required to pursue Alvarez. The club hopes to resolve that situation while continuing to press Atletico for talks over the Argentina international.

Despite their determination to sign Alvarez, Barcelona have prepared an alternative plan in case the move cannot be completed. Flick wants the club’s squad settled before the start of the new La Liga campaign, meaning a decision on the striker’s future is expected in the coming days.

Barcelona hope to conclude the matter shortly, either by securing Alvarez’s transfer or by moving on to another target. The club are looking for a new attacking option following the departure of Robert Lewandowski, and Alvarez has emerged as the preferred candidate for the role.

Alvarez joined Atletico de Madrid in the summer of 2024 and is contracted to the club until the summer of 2030. He has made 66 appearances for Atletico, scoring 25 goals and providing eight assists.

Atletico finished fourth in La Liga last season with 69 points. They will begin their league campaign this season against Malaga on Wednesday, 19 August.