Atletico Madrid superstar’s growing frustration could bring him closer to Barcelona transfer | OneFootball

Barcelona could have reason to be optimistic about landing Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. 

According to SPORT, sources close to the striker reveal that frustration is beginning to take hold, as Alvarez realises Atletico’s current setup may prevent him from competing for major trophies. 

With his ambitions for silverware and career growth, he is reportedly considering the option of leaving Spain in the future, with Barcelona closely following his situation.

When Alvarez joined Atletico, he was convinced by Diego Simeone’s vision and the club’s promise of building a team capable of competing for titles. 

The Argentine striker cost nearly €80 million, with the expectation that he would continue developing at a club ready to challenge for honours. 

However, Atletico have struggled to keep pace with La Liga leaders, while European setbacks, including a recent defeat to Arsenal, have highlighted the limitations of the squad despite Alvarez’s strong individual performances.

Growing frustration at Atletico Madrid

The striker’s frustration was visible after Arsenal’s victory, leaving the pitch with his head down. 

Julian Alvarez is starting to have doubts at Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

For what it is worth, it is not the first sign of tension, as earlier in La Liga, Alvarez openly expressed dissatisfaction when substituted against Mallorca, complaining about Simeone’s decisions. 

Those close to him confirm he won’t make any move before 2026 and remains appreciative of Atletico’s support, but it is becoming increasingly clear that his ambitions may eventually require a move away from the Colchonero club.

Conditions for a potential transfer to Barcelona

Atletico has made it clear that they have no intention of selling Alvarez, offering the striker a salary increase and a contract extension. 

Furthermore, his €500 million release clause makes a transfer challenging without his consent. 

Rumours suggest Atletico might accept around €150 million, but this is far above Barcelona’s realistic budget. 

For a move to the Blaugrana to happen, two conditions would need to be met: a more reasonable valuation and the possibility of including players as part of the deal.

For now, Alvarez’s growing desire to leave Atletico could be the only way Barcelona can pull this off in 2026.