Julian Alvarez continues to favour a move to Barcelona despite a substantial offer from Real Madrid, according to sources at TEAMtalk. Real Madrid submitted a bid of €150million (£129.3m / $173.3m) for the Atletico Madrid forward on Tuesday, but the offer was swiftly rejected by their city rivals.
Alvarez has been a target for several European clubs this summer, with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain previously expressing strong interest. Barcelona had reportedly moved to the front of the queue for his signature before Real Madrid’s intervention. While Alvarez is said to be flattered by the interest from the Santiago Bernabeu, he has communicated to both clubs that Barcelona remains his preferred destination.
The 25-year-old has attracted attention after a strong season with Atletico Madrid, though specific performance details were not provided. His desire to join Barcelona has been consistent, even in the face of Real Madrid’s significant financial offer. However, matching that offer presents a major challenge for the Catalan club, who had not anticipated needing to spend at that level.
Atletico Madrid’s position will be critical in determining Alvarez’s future. There is little expectation that they would offer Barcelona a discounted rate, particularly given Real Madrid’s willingness to pay a premium. This leaves Barcelona facing a difficult task to secure the transfer. Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain remain potential alternatives, though Alvarez’s focus remains on a move to Spain.
TEAMtalk reports that Alvarez acknowledges the appeal of becoming one of the most expensive signings in football history with Real Madrid, but his priority remains joining Barcelona. The situation is complex and ongoing, with the outcome dependent on negotiations between the clubs and Atletico Madrid’s willingness to sell to their rivals.
