Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has made it clear that Julián Álvarez is still the cornerstone of his plans, even as Barcelona circles the wantaway Argentine forward. Speaking to ESPN, Simeone dismissed speculation that Álvarez might leave this summer, reaffirming the club’s commitment to building around him.
Joan Laporta, Barça’s president, confirmed earlier this week that the Catalan giants have submitted an offer for Álvarez, who told ESPN in May he wanted out of Atlético. But Simeone remains unshaken. “He is the player we envision as the one to build our play around,” Simeone said. “That has been our approach since he arrived, and it still is.”
The coach’s stance clashes with Álvarez’s own words last month, when the forward admitted a split might be best for both parties. However, Simeone steered the conversation toward the World Cup, where Álvarez is preparing for Argentina’s knockout clash against Cape Verde. “His future is the match against Cape Verde,” Simeone added. “The best thing is to focus on that game and ignore distractions. Argentina needs him; he’s an extraordinary player, the best we’ve had at Atlético since he arrived.”
Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are also keen on the 26-year-old, while Real Madrid reportedly failed with a €150 million bid in May. Laporta declined to reveal Barça’s offer, hinting they would wait for Atlético to find a replacement. Simeone is unfazed by the interest, ranking Álvarez among the world’s elite: “He’s definitely top five. His numbers speak for themselves. Since joining from Manchester City in a deal worth up to €95 million in 2024, he has only improved. It’s hard to find another player with his attacking quality.”
Atlético’s CEO, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, has threatened to report Barcelona to FIFA for tapping up a player under contract until 2030. Gil Marín insisted Álvarez will not leave this summer, potentially forcing Barça to explore other targets, such as Harry Kane. ESPN revealed that an informal inquiry for Kane was quickly dismissed as the Bayern Munich striker focuses on the World Cup. Barça has already signed Anthony Gordon from Newcastle for €70 million but still seeks a replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who moved to Chicago Fire. Club sources express confidence in making another major signing, now that they operate within LaLiga’s financial rules.
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