'0% chance' - Atletico hit back at Barca over Alvarez transfer row
August 26, 2026 18:23
Atletico Madrid publicly rejected the idea of selling Julian Alvarez to Barcelona, saying there is "0% chance" of that transfer happening, after Barca president Joan Laporta reiterated that a €100m bid remained available. The dispute has escalated into a public row between the clubs, with Atletico accusing Barcelona of running a campaign of "lies and half-truths" that has harmed them economically and socially.
The situation has affected the player and the matchday atmosphere: Alvarez was jeered by Atletico fans during the draw with Villarreal, missed a subsequent training session (reports said he was unwell), and left straight for the dressing room at full-time rather than joining team applause.
KEY CONTEXT
- Alvarez joined Atletico from Manchester City in 2024 and is a 26-year-old Argentine World Cup finalist.
- He scored 20 goals and provided nine assists for Atletico last season.
- Barcelona first bid for Alvarez in May; Atletico publicly mocked Barca’s pursuit on social media at that time.
- In June, Real Madrid reportedly lodged a €150m offer after a promise by club president Florentino Perez.
- Multiple parties are involved: Atletico’s firm public stance, Barcelona saying its €100m offer remains on the table, and sources indicating Arsenal also remain interested.
WHY IT MATTERS
The episode is more than a single transfer negotiation: it has strained relations between two major Spanish clubs, created a public relations dispute Atletico say has financial and reputational consequences, and intensified scrutiny on Alvarez’s role and welfare at his current club. With the player jeered by supporters and links to several top clubs, the case highlights how high-profile transfers can spill into the public domain and affect team dynamics during a transfer window.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Barcelona will continue to press its €100m proposal before the 1 September transfer deadline (Barcelona sources say they will keep trying).
- Atletico’s continued refusal to sell the player to Barca and any further statements from the club.
- Arsenal’s stance; reports say they are watching the situation and becoming more realistic about signing Alvarez before the deadline.
- Any clarification about Alvarez’s absence from training and his stated desire to remain in Spain (reported).
KEY FACTS
- Atletico stated there is "0% chance" of selling Julian Alvarez to Barcelona (club statement).
- Barcelona’s president said a €100m offer for Alvarez remained on the table (Laporta’s comments / club sources).
- Reports say Alvarez missed training because he was unwell and was booed by fans during the Villarreal match.
- Alvarez joined Atletico from Manchester City in 2024 and posted 20 goals and nine assists last season.
- Real Madrid reportedly made a €150m bid for Alvarez in June.