Julian Alvarez set to tell Atletico Madrid he wants to leave as Barcelona wait

Julian Alvarez is expected to formally inform Atletico Madrid of his desire to leave the club after returning from holiday, with the transfer situation entering a decisive stage in the coming hours.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Argentina striker is due to communicate his position to the Atletico Madrid hierarchy as he reports back for pre-season duties. Alvarez has previously indicated, both indirectly and in earlier conversations, that he would like to move to Barcelona, although he has not publicly named the Catalan club.

His return marks a potentially significant turning point in the situation. With the player’s holiday now over, both Alvarez’s intentions and Atletico Madrid’s response are expected to become clearer.

Atletico Madrid remain opposed to selling the 26-year-old and have so far maintained their stance that he is not available for transfer. That position was previously confirmed by the club’s chief executive, Miguel Angel Gil Marin.

The Spanish club are hoping Alvarez will reconsider his decision, but reports suggest the forward remains determined to pursue a new challenge. If that resolve continues, the dispute could develop into a serious disagreement between the player and Atletico Madrid.

Barcelona are monitoring developments after making an initial offer for Alvarez. The club are prepared to submit an improved proposal if Atletico Madrid agree to open negotiations, although no agreement has yet been reached.

Should Atletico Madrid continue to reject Barcelona’s approach, the next move could rest with Alvarez. The player may decide to intensify his position in the weeks ahead, increasing the possibility of a dispute if neither side changes its stance.

Atletico Madrid are due to return from their Asian tour on Monday, with the squad scheduled to undergo medical examinations. Those tests will signal the beginning of the next stage in Alvarez’s future at the club, as attention turns to whether he remains part of the team.

Barcelona hope to resolve the matter in the coming days. Their preference is to complete a deal for Alvarez, but they may instead have to pursue another option if Atletico Madrid refuse to negotiate.

The Catalan club are seeking to strengthen their attack with the Argentina international as they plan for life after Robert Lewandowski’s departure. Alvarez joined Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2024 and is under contract until the summer of 2030.

He has made 66 appearances for Atletico Madrid, scoring 25 goals and providing eight assists.

Atletico Madrid finished last season fourth in the league with 69 points. They will begin their new league campaign against Malaga on Wednesday, 19 August.