Manchester City have entered the race to sign Julian Alvarez, according to reports in Spain. Marca claim Enzo Maresca's side are looking to re-sign the Argentinian striker, who returned to training with Atletico Madrid after a period of illness.
The 26-year-old's future is up in the air after expressing a desire to leave the club earlier this summer. Alvarez had made it clear he wanted to join Barcelona, but Atletico released a damning statement making it clear they wouldn't sell to their La Liga rivals.
City hold initial talks
Marca claim City have held initial talks about a move for Alvarez, but they've experienced a similar hurdle to Arsenal in that the Argentinian reportedly doesn't want to return to England.
Atletico want a guaranteed £128.4m to sell Alvarez this summer, just two years after signing the forward from Manchester City in 2024 for £81.8 million. The striker signed a six-year deal at the Metropolitano and has impressed since his move, scoring 49 goals in 107 games.
City short on options
However, with City offloading Omar Marmoush and Savinho, Maresca's side are short on options and could reportedly push to sign Alvarez. The report claims no negotiations have taken place between the two clubs, despite initial enquiries.
Arsenal had appeared to be the most likely destination for Alvarez if he is to leave Atletico Madrid, with a move to Barcelona ruled out entirely.
Atletico's stance on Barcelona
"The truth is that it outrages us even more; we are repulsed by the dishonesty, the lack of ethics, transparency and professionalism, and we can only insist that we will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances," Atletico chief Gil Marin said.
"I have the support of everyone working with me, from shareholders to directors, and the only certain and firm decision is that we will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances. You have my word – the player will most certainly not be transferred to Barcelona."
