Laporta Sets Ultimatum to Atlético for Julian Alvarez, Valued at €100M

FC Barcelona has tabled a firm offer for Julian Alvarez and is warning Atlético Madrid that it has an expiration date. Joan Laporta, president of the Catalan club, confirmed on Wednesday that his sporting director Deco had submitted a financial proposal to the Colchoneros for the Argentine striker, valued at €100 million by Transfermarkt.

“Deco made an offer with a certain amount of money. The player wants to come, since he was at Manchester City,” Laporta said, lifting the veil on a matter that had been handled behind the scenes until now. The Barcelona president clarified that he had spoken directly with Atlético’s general director, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín: “He told me that in principle he had no plans to sell him. The offer is firm and it will remain on the table. But it is not unlimited in duration.”

From Madrid’s side, the tone is unambiguous. Enrique Cerezo, president of Atlético, shut the door on Wednesday: “He is an Atlético Madrid player and he will continue to be an Atlético Madrid player. Even if there were offers, we do not want to sell him. We are not prepared to sell him and that’s all.”

Laporta, however, is not giving up. “I don’t know what this strategy is about, but I respect it. It wouldn’t be the first time we’ve completed a transfer with Atlético. This one may be more sensitive. We are making a significant effort,” he added, suggesting that Barcelona is prepared to go the distance financially, within the time limit set.

Arrived at Atlético from Manchester City in summer 2024, Julian Alvarez is tied to the Rojiblancos until 2030. The Argentine world champion had himself mentioned his “dream” of playing for Barcelona, placing his club in a delicate position facing the combined pressure from the player and the Catalans.