Atlético Madrid chief Gil Marín sends firm message to Barcelona over Julián Álvarez | OneFootball

As the World Cup 2026 approaches its end, the operation involving FC Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, and the forward Julian Alvarez is also heating up. The Catalan club has been waiting for the end of the international tournament to make their next moves for the player whom they are considering as their top transfer target this summer.

On the other hand, the Colchoneros have firmly made it clear that they have no plans to part with their star forward, especially to see him join a direct rival like Barcelona. They have maintained this stance despite statements from the player during the World Cup in which he publicly declared his intent to leave the Mattress Makers.

Since his re-election as the president, Joan Laporta has made several comments about his side’s interest in the Argentine. Now, as SPORT has reported, the CEO of Atletico Madrid, Gil Martin, has given his response to Laporta’s comments, and categorically ruled out the departure of Alvarez for any price.

In a video posted on Atlético de Madrid’s official X account, Martin can be seen saying:

“My opinion is clear, and we have made it known to the player, his agent and the Barça president… I have no doubt that Atlético is the place in the world for Julián and that he is the perfect centre-forward for Atlético de Madrid.”

The Atletico Madrid CEO replied sarcastically to Laporta’s recent comments that Barcelona’s offer was not unlimited in time:

“Our response is indeed infinite… We want to continue counting on him, and I recently heard the president say that the offer made was not unlimited. Our response is unlimited: we will not accept €100 million, €150 million or €200 million.”

With these comments, Atletico Madrid have firmly closed the door for any departure of the Argentine forward. Barcelona are expected to still make their moves for their top transfer target, but after these comments, it will be very difficult for them to convince the Colchoneros to part ways with Julian Alvarez.