Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has publicly stated that he wants a transfer away from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid.Alvarez played the last half-hour of Argentina’s World Cup 2026 win against Austria on Monday, watching on at close quarters as Lionel Messi extended his newly minted lead as the World Cup’s record goalscorer.The former Manchester City and River Plate striker has been linked consistently with a move in the summer transfer window, with Spanish champions Barcelona and city rivals Real Madrid at the forefront of the speculation along with Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain.Play our free match predictor and win £1k Alvarez ‘can’t hide’ desire to move to BarcelonaAlvarez won the World Cup with Argentina (Image credit: Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images)Alvarez’s name got wrapped up in the politics of Real Madrid’s recent presidential election. Real Madrid claimed that they’d submitted a monster bid for the World Cup winner and Atletico openly laughed off Florentino Perez’s supposed interest.In a bizarre statement posted on X – of course – Atleti issued ‘clarifications’ on the matter including the ‘clarification’ that they had not considered any offer for Alvarez.Alvarez joined Atletico Madrid from Man City two years ago (Image credit: Pablo Rodriguez/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)Barcelona’s interest appears to be more substantial. According to The Athletic: “Alvarez is Barcelona’s No 1 transfer target and the Catalans are expected to return with a new offer in the coming weeks.”Speaking to ESPN after Argentina’s 2-0 win against Austria, Alvarez left no room for confusion when it comes to his plans for the future.“This isn’t the time to talk about this but I can’t hide it,” said the 26-year-old, talking about this. “I try to be an honest person. I spoke with Atletico de Madrid, and I think a transfer is the best option. I want to fulfil my dream.”Alvarez joined Atletico from Man City two years ago. After 20 goals in 67 Premier League matches, the former River Plate youngster has continued to thrive in front of goal. He has scored 49 times in 106 appearances in all competitions for Los Rojiblancos, the fruits of a relationship that appears to be coming to an end.Premier League champions Arsenal were also understood to have been keen on the Argentinian,…
2026-06-23 14:02:13
Julian Alvarez confirms he wants to leave Atletico Madrid
