How Close Is Julián Álvarez to Barcelona? Transfer Race Takes Unexpected Turn

The Argentine striker's future now appears to come down to two possible destinations.

Julián Álvarez's future remains one of the hottest topics of the summer transfer window, but the situation has changed dramatically.

Although the Argentine striker expressed his desire to play for Barcelona, the chances of completing a move have all but disappeared, according to The Touchline and multiple Spanish reports.

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While Barcelona has decided to halt any further pursuit to avoid escalating tensions, Atlético Madrid remains unwilling to negotiate with one of its direct rivals.

With the new season fast approaching, all signs point to Álvarez remaining under Diego Simeone, at least for the foreseeable future.

The Latest on Julián Álvarez

After weeks of transfer speculation, Álvarez has already begun following Atlético Madrid's individualized training program for international players.

Although he is still enjoying the final days of his vacation, the Argentine forward is following a personalized fitness plan ahead of officially joining Atlético's preseason camp.

His decision has been interpreted as a sign of normality, despite earlier reports suggesting he could push for an exit. Instead, Álvarez has remained in contact with the club and is expected to report as scheduled.

Meanwhile, Barcelona has cooled its interest.

The Catalan club believes the conditions are no longer in place to complete a deal and has no intention of disrupting its transfer strategy.

Barcelona also feels well covered following the signing of Anthony Gordon, reducing the urgency to pursue a transfer that now appears virtually impossible.

Atlético's Complaint Changed Everything

One of the biggest reasons behind Barcelona's withdrawal was Atlético Madrid's formal complaint to the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), along with its approach to FIFA over alleged unauthorized contact with Álvarez's representatives.

Atlético accused Barcelona of attempting to persuade the player without prior permission, a practice commonly known as "tapping up," while also alleging that the Catalan club sought to destabilize the striker.

The investigation is now underway, with both clubs expected to present their versions of events.

Facing that scenario, Barcelona decided to end all negotiations, while Atlético reiterated that it will not entertain offers from Barcelona, regardless of the transfer fee.

Arsenal Remains an Option, but Atlético Holds Its Position

With Barcelona effectively out of the race, the international market offers few immediate alternatives.

Arsenal, which had been heavily linked with the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner, has also lost momentum in the pursuit, making the Premier League side less of a threat to Atlético's plans.

Even so, the transfer window remains open, and Atlético acknowledges that a massive offer from another Premier League club could still change the situation.

For now, however, Atlético Madrid's priority is keeping one of its biggest stars, while Julián Álvarez looks to move past a summer filled with speculation and refocus on the pitch.

At this stage, Álvarez staying at Atlético Madrid appears far more likely than a move to Barcelona.