It’s well known that FC Barcelona is eyeing Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez as they prepare for the summer transfer window.
The 2022 FIFA World Cup champion has become the main focus for Joan Laporta and his team, who are eager to secure a new centre-forward before the next season kicks off.
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However, financial constraints may pose a challenge, with recent reports indicating that Barça can allocate a maximum of only €50 million for the Argentine’s transfer, potentially including a player in the agreement.
Atletico Madrid Rejects Player-plus-Cash Deals
In a recent turn of events, SPORT reports that Atletico Madrid has made it clear they will not entertain player exchanges in any potential deal with Barcelona regarding Alvarez.
Los Rojiblancos, who face off against the Catalans later tonight in La Liga, are displeased with Barcelona’s handling of the Alvarez situation throughout the season, particularly regarding the forward’s involvement in it.
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Barcelona hasn’t initiated formal negotiations with Atletico yet but has been in contact with the player’s representatives to gauge his interest and discuss potential financial terms.
Barcelona’s prime target. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
While personal terms are unlikely to be an issue, Atletico’s stance indicates that any sale will occur strictly on their terms and at a premium price.
No Discounts or Exchanges
Barcelona had contemplated a deal that included cash plus a player, considering names like Marc Casado or Ferran Torres, assuming the players agreed to such a move.
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However, Atletico has communicated to Alvarez’s camp that they will not accept any reduction in the transfer fee through player exchanges.
Instead, the deal must be a straightforward transfer, with the valuation set at €100 million or thereabouts, including both fixed and variable elements.
Given these terms, Barcelona is uncertain about the feasibility of the deal and whether such a substantial investment is warranted, especially considering their financial constraints related to the salary cap.
For now, the Blaugrana plan to reassess the situation in May, following their forthcoming matches against Atletico.
Much will hinge on Alvarez’s own stance and whether he seeks to force a move, although even then, Barça regards the deal as unlikely without player inclusion in negotiations.