Simeone confirms Atlético will not sell Julián Álvarez despite Barcelona interest

Simeone backs club's refusal to sell

Diego Simeone, Atlético de Madrid's head coach, told a press conference in Seoul on Saturday that the club's position on Julián Álvarez is settled. The Argentine forward is not for sale, despite interest from FC Barcelona and a public transfer request from the player himself during the 2026 World Cup. Simeone's remarks came ahead of Atlético's third pre-season friendly, against Manchester City in the South Korean capital on Sunday.

“The situation is very clear. The institution has taken a decision that Miguel Ángel explained very well. From a sporting point of view, we are very happy to have a player like Julián, and we will help him to continue growing and improving and to give us again what he has given us in these two years.”

The decision Simeone referenced was communicated publicly by CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín on July 17, in response to comments from Barcelona president Joan Laporta about the offer the Catalan club had made.

Player's public request and club's response

On June 22, after Argentina's World Cup match against Austria, Álvarez broke his silence and said he had spoken with club officials and believed a transfer was best for all parties. He did not specify a preferred destination, though Barcelona have maintained him as a priority target for their attack.

“I spoke with the people at the club, with those I had to speak with. I think the best for everyone is a transfer, and I want to fulfill my dream.”

Gil Marín's response was unequivocal. He confirmed Atlético rejected a €100 million offer from Barcelona and would not accept €150 million or €200 million. The club also filed a complaint with FIFA over alleged improper approaches by Barcelona to the 26-year-old. Atlético had previously turned down a €150 million bid from Real Madrid for the player.

Contract and performance

Álvarez joined Atlético in 2024 for €75 million. His contract runs until June 30, 2030, with a release clause set at €500 million. In two seasons at the club, the striker has scored 49 goals and provided 17 assists across 106 appearances, making him a central piece of Simeone's project.

Transfer cost to Atlético (2024)75

Barcelona offer100

Real Madrid offer (rejected)150

Release clause500

Transfer cost to Atlético (2024)

75 €M

Barcelona offer

100 €M

Real Madrid offer (rejected)

150 €M

Release clause

500 €M

Data from the article text

Griezmann precedent

Simeone drew a parallel with Antoine Griezmann, who left Atlético for Barcelona after his €120 million release clause was paid, then returned to the Metropolitano in 2022 and rebuilt his standing with supporters before leaving at the end of last season. The coach suggested Álvarez could follow a similar path of proving himself on the pitch.

“We had a passage these years with Antoine, who had to leave and come back, and had to prove on the pitch the quality and the hierarchy he has. I see no other path than to work from a sporting perspective, as is our duty, and try to help him, just as we have done these two years.”

What happens next

Álvarez is scheduled to rejoin Atlético training on Monday, August 10. His attitude on return could determine whether the standoff between the player, Atlético, and Barcelona enters its final phase. Simeone also highlighted the arrival of South Korean midfielder Kang-in Lee, saying the club would look to develop him further and that he would help the team.