Atlético Madrid have filed a complaint with the Royal Spanish Football Federation against Barcelona regarding their pursuit of forward Julián Álvarez, according to L’Équipe. The complaint alleges an irregular approach made by Barcelona towards the Argentinian international, a breach of protocol between the two clubs.
Reports in Spain, initially surfacing in AS in late June, indicated Atlético’s intention to pursue legal action. The club has now formally lodged the complaint, citing a presumed violation of ethical rules governing interactions between clubs. This action follows Barcelona’s reported interest in Álvarez as a potential number nine during the early stages of the transfer window.
Álvarez, 26, reportedly expressed a desire to leave Atlético during the 2022 World Cup in North America. Despite this, Atlético have remained firm in their stance, rejecting a reported €150 million offer from Real Madrid on June 9th. The club publicly stated that Barcelona would either need to meet Álvarez’s €500 million release clause or cease their pursuit altogether.
Álvarez joined Atlético Madrid in the summer of 2024 for a fee of €95 million. He has since become a key player for Diego Simeone's side, contributing significantly in attack. While Álvarez may still wish to depart, Atlético’s unwavering position and the substantial release clause make a transfer away from the club highly improbable. The situation highlights the increasing tension between top Spanish clubs and their determination to protect key assets.
This dispute could have wider implications for future transfer dealings between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, potentially creating a more strained relationship between the clubs. It also underscores the growing importance of release clauses in protecting clubs from unwanted approaches for their players.
