Atletico Madrid fear Barcelona links could affect Julian Alvarez’s performance on the pitch | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid are reportedly growing increasingly concerned that the uncertainty surrounding Julian Alvarez’s future could begin to affect the striker’s performance on the pitch.

According to Carrusel Deportivo, the prolonged Julian Alvarez transfer saga and his strong links with Barcelona have created a situation Atletico can no longer ignore. 

The Argentine has returned to training, but the question surrounding his future continues to hang over the club.

Alvarez reportedly wants to fulfil his ambition of joining Barcelona, while the Catalan giants remain equally determined to bring him to Camp Nou. 

Atletico, however, have maintained the same position throughout the summer: they do not want to sell their star forward.

The growing concern is now whether keeping Alvarez while the situation remains unresolved could eventually have an impact on his form and motivation.

Atletico Madrid know Alvarez wants Barcelona move

Julian Alvarez wants to leave Barcelona. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

The Julian Alvarez to Barcelona story has moved from speculation into an awkward situation for all parties involved.

After returning to Atletico Madrid training this week, Alvarez hoped to continue pushing for his desired move to Barcelona. So far, though, his most significant conversation has been with Diego Simeone.

During talks, the Atletico Madrid manager informed Alvarez that he remains part of Atletico’s plans for the 2026-27 season, a stance that has not changed despite the player’s desire to leave.

Atletico Madrid know that Alvarez would prefer a move to Barcelona, while Barcelona’s interest in the Argentine striker is also well established. 

The problem is that the Rojiblancos have no intention of becoming a selling club simply because the player wants a new challenge.

From the beginning, they have insisted that Alvarez will not be allowed to leave at any price.

Barcelona transfer tension leaves Atletico concerned

Atletico fear the sporting impact of keeping Alvarez. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

According to the aforementioned outlet, Atletico Madrid’s biggest concern is now the possible sporting impact of the situation.

The club fear that the continued uncertainty surrounding Alvarez and Barcelona could affect his performances if the issue is not resolved.

A player who remains at a club while wanting to leave can face a difficult situation, especially when the transfer story has become such a public and prolonged affair.

Atletico’s concern is not necessarily about Alvarez refusing to play or failing to remain professional. 

Instead, the fear appears to centre on whether the mental weight of the situation could affect his motivation, sharpness and overall output.