Arsenal only likely exit for Alvarez as striker skips training
August 27, 2026 16:18
Julian Álvarez has stayed away from Atlético Madrid training after being privately informed the club will not negotiate a transfer to Barcelona. The striker has missed two consecutive sessions, reportedly citing illness.
Atlético have publicly and privately reiterated they will not sell Álvarez to Barcelona, while remaining receptive to a move to Arsenal. Club officials have held direct talks with the Premier League side, with Atlético seeking a fee of €150m (£128m).
KEY CONTEXT
- Sources told BBC Sport Atlético communicated to Álvarez and his advisors this week that they would not open negotiations with Barcelona.
- Atlético issued two statements within 24 hours reinforcing their refusal to allow a transfer to the Catalan club; the board said it unanimously backs the decision.
- Atlético director Mateu Alemany met Arsenal representatives in London last week as part of negotiations between the clubs.
- Mikel Arteta wants to sign Álvarez this month, but the player's reported preference for Barcelona has so far stalled Arsenal’s pursuit.
- Álvarez is 26 and was part of Argentina’s squad that reached the World Cup final this summer.
WHY IT MATTERS
This standoff affects the major parties in the transfer market: Barcelona remain interested but face a firm Atlético refusal, while Arsenal could still complete a high-profile signing if the player agrees. Atlético’s €150m valuation sets a significant price point and underlines how consequential any move would be for the buying club’s finances and squad planning.
WHAT TO WATCH NEXT
- Whether Álvarez will formally authorise Atlético to proceed with a transfer to Arsenal; BBC Sport reports that if he does, a deal could advance quickly.
- Whether the striker returns to Atlético training and how the club responds if absences continue.
- Any further public statements from Atlético, Barcelona or Arsenal clarifying their positions.
KEY FACTS
- Sources told BBC Sport Atlético privately informed Álvarez they would not negotiate with Barcelona.
- Álvarez has missed two training sessions, citing illness.
- Atlético have held direct talks with Arsenal and sought €150m (£128m) for the striker.
- The Atlético board publicly backed the decision to refuse negotiations with Barcelona.
- Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to sign Álvarez, but the player’s preference for Barcelona has stalled progress.