Manchester City have reportedly entered the running to sign Julian Alvarez, according to reports from Spain. Marca claims that Enzo Maresca's side are keen to re-sign the Argentine striker, who has returned to training with Atletico Madrid following a bout of illness.
Alvarez's uncertain future
The 26-year-old's future remains uncertain after he expressed a wish to leave the club earlier this summer. Alvarez had made no secret of his desire to join Barcelona, but Atletico released a strongly-worded statement making it abundantly clear they had no intention of selling to their La Liga rivals.
Marca reports that City have held preliminary discussions regarding a potential move for Alvarez, though they have encountered a similar obstacle to Arsenal, with the Argentine reportedly reluctant to return to England.
Atletico's asking price
Atletico are demanding a guaranteed £128.4m to part with Alvarez this summer, just two years after signing the forward from Manchester City in 2024 for £81.8million. The striker penned a six-year contract at the Metropolitano and has impressed since his arrival, netting 49 goals in 107 appearances.
With City having offloaded Omar Marmoush and Savinho, Maresca's squad is reportedly light on attacking options, potentially pushing the club to make a move for Alvarez.
Arsenal and Barcelona interest
The report indicates that no formal negotiations have taken place between the two clubs, despite initial enquiries being made. Arsenal had previously appeared to be the most likely destination for Alvarez should he depart Atletico Madrid, with a switch to Barcelona now completely off the table.
"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 Marín 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."
