Atlético Madrid are refusing to sell Julián Álvarez to either Barcelona or Real Madrid this summer, despite the Argentine striker submitting a formal transfer request, according to a report from Cadena COPE. The club has stated it has no intention of selling the player to either domestic rival, with the only potential exit being the payment of his €500 million release clause.
Atlético have also threatened to file a complaint with FIFA regarding Barcelona’s conduct in pursuing Álvarez, alleging the Blaugrana held negotiations with the player’s representatives without the club’s knowledge or consent. This threat remains in place and has now been extended to cover Real Madrid’s interest as well.
This firm stance appears to be both a protection of Álvarez’s market value and a deliberate political statement to their biggest rivals. The substantial release clause serves as a legal barrier and a clear message that Atlético will not strengthen either end of the Madrid footballing landscape or allow Barcelona to secure a high-profile signing through negotiation.
COPE reports that Álvarez is unlikely to play for Atlético again, creating an awkward situation the club is currently willing to endure rather than facilitate a move to a rival. This suggests Atlético are prepared to retain an unhappy player on their books rather than accept a commercially reasonable offer from Barcelona or Real Madrid.
Atlético’s strong position is supported by Álvarez’s contract, which runs until 2030, and the prohibitive release clause. However, the situation is time-sensitive, as maintaining a player who does not want to be at the club presents its own challenges. The club has reportedly explored a swap-plus-cash deal with Arsenal as a potential alternative exit strategy.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Álvarez is further complicated by the threat of a FIFA complaint, adding procedural and reputational hurdles to any potential negotiation. The club’s financial limitations also render the €500 million release clause unattainable. Real Madrid’s previous bid was rejected, and Atlético’s firm stance suggests a transfer to Los Blancos is also highly improbable.
With his preferred destination seemingly blocked, Álvarez may need to consider alternative options, with PSG and Arsenal remaining potential suitors. The next development will likely be whether Atlético formally lodges its complaint with FIFA, potentially forcing Barcelona to reassess their approach.
