Atletico Madrid have issued a firm warning to Arsenal and other potential suitors that Julian Alvarez is not for sale, despite the forward's recent admission that he wants to leave the club. The Argentina international, who joined Atletico from Manchester City in 2024 for £82 million, has scored 49 goals in 106 appearances but endured a disappointing campaign as his side finished fourth in La Liga.
Alvarez has attracted interest from Arsenal and Manchester United, with the latter reportedly establishing contact with his representatives. However, Atletico midfielder Alex Baena has pleaded with his teammate to stay, saying he would 'chain him down' if it were up to him. 'I'm not happy with my season either, but I'm keen to stay,' Baena told COPE. 'I'm where I want to be, and I'm in love with Atleti.'
Alvarez, who is currently representing Argentina at the World Cup, has already laid the groundwork for a summer exit. 'I spoke with the people at [Atletico] I needed to speak with, and the best thing for everyone is a transfer,' he said. 'I want to fulfil my dream.' Despite this, Atletico have publicly dismissed any offers, including a £129 million bid from Real Madrid, which was rejected on the eve of the World Cup.
Atletico's response to Real Madrid's official statement was scathing, mocking their rivals and making clear that no offer for Alvarez would be considered. The forward's contract includes a staggering £431 million release clause, but that has not silenced speculation. With Manchester United generating close to £40 million from selling Rasmus Hojlund to Napoli and potentially offloading Marcus Rashford, they could be in a strong position to test Atletico's resolve.
