Barcelona’s interest in Julian Alvarez this summer is well-known as they aim to find a replacement for Robert Lewandowski. However, any discussions are currently on pause pending the results of the presidential election, despite recent reports from Argentina suggesting that an agreement has already been reached for the Atletico Madrid striker’s transfer to Spotify Camp Nou.
Alvarez has also caught the attention of Chelsea and Manchester United, both keen to welcome the former Manchester City player back to the Premier League. Nevertheless, Atletico Madrid has made it clear that their star striker is not on the market, despite a dip in form in recent months.
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According to Cadena SER, Atletico’s response to Barcelona’s latest inquiry about Alvarez included their hefty asking price of €200 million. This fee would mark the second highest transfer in history, following Neymar Junior’s €222 million move from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2017.
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Alvarez more likely to sign new Atleti contract than leave
The report also indicated that Alvarez is now more inclined to sign a new contract with Atletico than to depart this summer. Atletico officials are looking to provide the Argentine international the opportunity to extend his tenure, likely as part of an offer that would also include a salary increase.
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While Alvarez has struggled this season, his performances in the 2024-25 campaign affirmed his status as a top-tier striker. Atletico isn’t under any pressure to sell, so demanding a record fee is logical for them in considering a sale to Barcelona.
Barcelona is still evaluating their summer plans, and if Joan Laporta is re-elected as president, a move for Alvarez could be seriously contemplated. However, they would first need to address La Liga’s 1:1 financial regulations, as they are currently facing financial constraints.