Julian Alvarez set for talks with Diego Simeone over Atletico Madrid future

Julian Alvarez is expected to meet Atletico de Madrid manager Diego Simeone after Wednesday’s training session to discuss his future, with the Argentina striker continuing to prepare for the new season amid speculation linking him with a move to Barcelona.

Alvarez has indicated that he wants to leave Atletico de Madrid for Barcelona, either indirectly or in previous comments, although he has not publicly named the Catalan club.

The 26-year-old returned to training with Atletico de Madrid on Monday alongside Marcos Llorente, Alex Baena and Juan Musso. However, he has not yet met Simeone since then because the manager was given two days off after returning from the club’s trip to South Korea, according to Spanish newspaper Sport.

A meeting between the two Argentines is expected after Wednesday’s session, with Alvarez’s position potentially becoming clearer in the coming hours.

The forward’s transfer situation has entered a decisive phase, with reports suggesting he remains determined to leave Atletico de Madrid. Mundo Deportivo says Alvarez is expected to formally inform the club’s management of his desire to depart.

Atletico de Madrid continue to oppose the sale of the player, having made that position clear previously. The club have so far resisted the prospect of allowing one of their key forwards to leave, despite the growing interest from Barcelona.

Barcelona are monitoring developments after making an initial offer for Alvarez. The club are prepared to submit an improved proposal if Atletico de Madrid agree to open negotiations.

If Atletico maintain their refusal to sell, the final decision could rest with Alvarez, who may take a stronger position in the coming period. Reports have raised the possibility of a dispute between the player and the club if both sides continue to stand by their current positions.

Barcelona hope to resolve the matter in the next few days. They either want to complete the signing of Alvarez or move on to another target, as the club seek to strengthen their attack following the departure of Robert Lewandowski.

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

His potential departure would represent a significant decision for Atletico, who finished fourth in the previous season with 69 points. The club are due to begin their league campaign on Wednesday, 19 August, when they face Malaga.

The immediate focus, however, is on the anticipated conversation between Alvarez and Simeone. The outcome could influence the next stage of negotiations between Atletico de Madrid and Barcelona, as well as determine whether the Argentina international remains part of Simeone’s plans for the new season.