Atlético de Madrid CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has stated the club will not sell Julián Alvarez to FC Barcelona at any price, even offers reaching €200 million. The firm declaration came in an interview published Friday on Atlético’s official YouTube channel, less than 48 hours before Alvarez represents Argentina in the FIFA World Cup final against Spain.
Gil confirmed the club had already rejected a €100 million bid from Barcelona and indicated that subsequent offers of €150 million or €200 million would receive the same response. He emphasized that Atlético views Alvarez as central to their project and has no intention of allowing his departure, regardless of the financial incentive. The CEO directly addressed Barcelona president Joan Laporta, urging him to cease his pursuit and suggesting Laporta prolongs the saga for media attention, while understanding a deal is impossible.
The timing of Gil’s interview was strategic, following Laporta’s recent public comments from New York reiterating Barcelona’s offer and consideration of alternative targets. Pressure from Barcelona has reportedly persisted throughout the summer transfer window, making Gil’s statement particularly emphatic. Football España reported on the continued pressure from the Catalan club.
Gil also criticized Alvarez’s agent, Fernando Hidalgo, accusing him of providing poor counsel to the player. Alvarez submitted a transfer request last month, a decision widely viewed as ill-timed as it coincided with Lionel Messi’s record-breaking goal in the World Cup. Gil clarified his criticism was directed at Hidalgo, not Alvarez himself, expressing continued confidence in the player’s character and professionalism. Atlético have filed a formal complaint with FIFA and the RFEF, alleging improper negotiations between Hidalgo and Barcelona during a protected period.
Club chairman Enrique Cerezo echoed Gil’s sentiments on Thursday, indicating a unified stance from Atlético’s ownership group, Apollo Sports Capital. Beyond Barcelona, Premier League champions Arsenal have also expressed interest in Alvarez, though Gil’s message applies to all potential suitors. Atlético’s transfer planning has proceeded with the expectation that Alvarez will remain with the squad, exploring alternative options in parallel.
Alvarez is expected to return to Madrid after the World Cup for pre-season training. The outcome of Atlético’s complaint to FIFA regarding Hidalgo’s alleged contact with Barcelona, and Barcelona’s continued pursuit led by coach Hansi Flick, will likely determine whether Laporta explores other options or continues to press for Alvarez’s signature in the coming months.
