Atlético rule out talks with Barcelona over Julián Álvarez, citing lack of ethics and respect | OneFootball

Atlético Madrid issued an unusual statement ruling out negotiations with Barcelona for Julián Álvarez, accusing the Catalan club of lacking ethics and respect. While saying they remain open to transfer dealings conducted professionally and with mutual respect, the club said there has not been, and will not be, any talks with Barcelona regarding the striker.

The decision was adopted unanimously by the board, with Apollo, the majority shareholder, endorsing the stance alongside CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín.

Barcelona had retained faint hope of reviving the move late in the window, despite Gil Marín making clear weeks ago that Atlético would not sell for the €100 million offered, nor for €150 from Real Madrid’s “phantom” bid, nor even for €200.

The announcement arrived a day after Joan Laporta, via the club’s media, restated interest in the Argentine, expressing willingness to buy this summer if Atlético were prepared to sell and stressing respect for the Madrid club.

Hostile scenes at the Metropolitano on Sunday did not shift the position. Nor did Álvarez’s absence from the past two training sessions with a reported indisposition, read as pressure amid a Barcelona move he had implicitly termed his “dream”.

Arsenal now appear the only possible exit before Tuesday’s deadline, having shown interest without advancing talks, partly because the player prioritised Barcelona and is reluctant to return to England after Manchester City. If not, he stays and must repair ties with supporters. Atlético expressed confidence he will understand and refocus to help the team as he has in his two seasons.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

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