Barcelona consider increasing their initial offer for Atletico Madrid star through variables | OneFootball

Barcelona’s quest to sign Julian Alvarez is likely to dominate the headlines in August, as the club patiently await an opportunity to pounce on.

Atletico Madrid have been defiant so far and have shown no desire to sell their star player to a direct rival. But they are facing immense pressure, especially with Alvarez himself publicly announcing his desire to leave during the World Cup.

Barcelona are ready to fork out €100 million on the Argentine international, but Atletico Madrid are having none of it and point towards his release clause worth €500 million.

Barcelona consider increasing the offer

What does the future hold for Alvarez? (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

According to Catalunya Radio, while Joan Laporta publicly stated that Barcelona’s offer stood at €100 million, club officials have privately acknowledged the possibility of increasing that initial proposal through variables.

Barcelona continue to view Alvarez as their primary target to strengthen Hansi Flick’s attack this summer, even as Atletico’s rigid position complicates matters considerably.

The great hope among Barcelona’s hierarchy is that Alvarez makes a second public gesture. The striker already made one during the World Cup by openly asking Atletico to sanction his sale, and the Catalans feel a repeat would be crucial.

Without it, they consider it practically impossible to convince their fanbase. Alvarez is due to return from his holidays on August 10.

Atletico file a complaint

Atletico have no desire to sell Alvarez. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

The saga took another turn on Thursday, when the Spanish Football Federation notified Barcelona of a complaint lodged by Atletico.

The Madrid club have accused Barcelona of negotiating with Alvarez, a player under contract with another club, prompting the opening of an information file.

The move is the latest sign of the growing tension between the two clubs over the forward’s future.

Barcelona, however, remain relaxed about the matter. The club believe it will be very difficult to prove they are behind Alvarez’s World Cup statements.

For now, then, little has changed in Barcelona’s pursuit despite the fresh developments.

The club will continue to hold firm, hopeful that Alvarez forces the issue once more upon his return. Whether that gesture comes remains to be seen.