Atlético Madrid have reportedly ceased direct communication with Barcelona president Joan Laporta regarding a potential transfer for forward Julián Álvarez, according to Spanish journalist Roberto Gómez. Speaking on La Tribu, Gómez stated that Atlético have no intention of negotiating with Laporta and will not take his calls concerning the 26-year-old Argentinian international.
Barcelona’s financial limitations are also cited as a significant obstacle, with Gómez asserting the club lacks the economic capacity to meet Atlético’s demands. Atlético have previously set a price of €150 million cash for Álvarez, excluding any player exchanges or installment payments, a figure that already presented a considerable challenge for Barcelona.
The situation extends beyond mere financial disagreement, however. Gómez clarified a distinction between refusing to communicate and formally rejecting an offer, explaining that Atlético considers Laporta an unsuitable negotiator. He alleges Barcelona bypassed Atlético by negotiating directly with Álvarez’s representatives throughout the year, a tactic described as “unpresentable” and amounting to “chantaje” (blackmail).
Atlético have already filed a formal complaint with FIFA regarding Barcelona’s conduct in approaching Álvarez, further complicating any potential dialogue. This legal dispute underscores a breakdown in institutional trust, making a swift resolution unlikely. Maintaining silence on calls from Laporta is, in this context, seen as a logical consequence of the ongoing regulatory process.
Álvarez joined Atlético from Manchester City for approximately €75 million plus variables, signing a contract that runs until 2030. The club has consistently maintained he is not for sale, and a recent €150 million bid from Real Madrid was also rejected, demonstrating a firm stance irrespective of the suitor. The FIFA complaint serves as an additional deterrent against further approaches.
Gómez was critical of Laporta’s overall conduct, questioning Barcelona’s financial position and accusing the club of disrespectfully “assaulting” Atlético. Barcelona’s offers have reportedly ranged between €100-135 million, falling short of Atlético’s minimum requirement and significantly below Álvarez’s €500 million release clause. Álvarez himself has remained publicly committed to Atlético, stating his focus is with the club and dismissing transfer rumors.
Any potential breakthrough hinges on Barcelona significantly increasing their offer or Atlético responding positively to a credible bid. The outcome of the FIFA investigation will also be crucial, potentially escalating the conflict and further damaging relations between the clubs. The next meaningful development will be whether Barcelona present a credible offer that moves the conversation onto economic terrain rather than procedural grievance, and whether Álvarez’s public silence on his future remains intact as pre-season preparations begin and the pressure of the saga intensifies on all sides.
