Real Madrid’s attempt to sign Julián Álvarez from Atlético Madrid has been firmly rejected, according to reports in Spain. President Florentino Pérez announced a €150 million offer for the Argentinian forward last week, a move seemingly intended to counter claims made by rival candidate Enrique Riquelme during the recent club elections. Riquelme had suggested agreements were in place for Erling Haaland and Jürgen Klopp, assertions later denied.
However, the pursuit of Álvarez was widely considered unrealistic given Atlético’s firm stance against selling their star player. The club swiftly dismissed Madrid’s offer, stating they hadn't even considered it and mocking the attempt, comparing it unfavorably to Barcelona’s previous interest. Atlético maintain Álvarez is not for sale except for his release clause of €500 million.
The situation has been described as a public relations exercise by some, with the announcement of the bid and subsequent rejection serving as a demonstration of Pérez’s commitment to pursuing ‘galactic’ signings, despite the low probability of success. It marks a somewhat inauspicious start to Pérez’s eighth term as president.
Despite the setback with Álvarez, Real Madrid are progressing with other transfer business. Ivorian defender Ibrahima Konaté and Dutch right-back Denzel Dumfries are expected to join the club imminently. Dumfries himself confirmed his move to the Bernabéu with a message of thanks to his former club, Inter, and his youth team, VV Smitshoek.
Manager José Mourinho is also pushing for midfield reinforcements, with West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes identified as a key target. The 21-year-old is valued around €90 million, and his agent, Jorge Mendes – who also represents Mourinho – is working to negotiate a deal. The club’s recent contract renewal with Emirates, worth almost €100 million per season until 2031, provides additional financial flexibility for these pursuits. Meanwhile, Clément Lenglet’s future at Atlético remains uncertain, as the defender is reluctant to leave despite the club’s desire to sell.
