Barcelona insist Álvarez offer stands as transfer window nears close

BarcelonaBarcelonaLaLiga · Spain1st POS31–1–6 W-D-L are still trying to sign Julián Álvarez from Atlético MadridReal MadridLaLiga · Spain2nd POS27–5–6 W-D-L, with club president Joan Laporta confirming that the Spanish champions' offer remains in place. Laporta spoke on Wednesday, saying Barcelona remain hopeful of completing a deal before the transfer window closes next week. The statement is the clearest signal yet that a move is possible, though no agreement has been reached.

The offer has not been withdrawn, according to Laporta, who said the club is optimistic about reaching a deal. He gave no details of the financial package, and neither Atlético Madrid nor the player's camp has commented on the proposal. It is not known whether the bid meets Atlético's valuation or whether the clubs have opened direct negotiations.

Álvarez is also a target for the champions of England, with ArsenalArsenalPremier League · England1st POS26–7–5 W-D-L reported to be interested. The player is understood to have faced criticism over his desire to leave Atlético, though the nature of that backlash has not been specified. No formal offer from Arsenal has been confirmed, and it is unclear if the English club will enter the race.

Barcelona's pursuit of Álvarez is part of a wider effort to strengthen their attack. The club's recent domestic success has not eased the financial constraints that have shaped their transfer activity in recent windows, and it is not known how they would structure a deal for a player of Álvarez's standing. Both Barcelona and Arsenal have won their domestic leagues, making the pull of either club considerable.

2025/26

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POS

1st

W-D-L

31–1–6

GF

95

GA

36

Season 2025/26

What is not yet known

Ank Kumar · CC BY-SA 4.0

Atlético have not said whether they are willing to sell, and no asking price has been reported. The player's preference has also not been made public, and it is unclear whether he would favour a move to Spain or England. No agreement has been announced, and no medical has been scheduled, leaving the transfer in a holding pattern.

With the window closing next week, Barcelona face a race against time. The longer the silence from Atlético, the more difficult a deal becomes. For now, the offer stands, and Laporta's public optimism suggests the Spanish champions have not given up on bringing Álvarez to the Camp Nou.