Julián Álvarez ‘to stay’ at Atlético de Madrid after telling Mateu Alemany | OneFootball

Julián Álvarez has told Mateu Alemany he will remain at Atlético de Madrid at least until January, La Sexta reports. The decision ends a summer saga after the club refused to entertain a move to Barcelona.

Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, were strongly interested, but the Argentina international has opted to continue in Madrid.

The choice was likely made with a view to pursuing a Barcelona transfer in future windows, and he is not drawn to other mooted destinations. During this summer’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, he said a move would be best for everyone and that he wanted to fulfil his dream of joining Hansi Flick’s side.

Even so, the move did not progress. Atlético posted tongue-in-cheek messages denying any Barça bid and joking about signing Raphinha, Lamine Yamal and Pedri.

Majority shareholder Gil Marín repeatedly said they would not negotiate with Barcelona. He maintained they wanted Álvarez to remain and that if he felt staying was incompatible they would look for an alternative, but not Barcelona.

Atleti have tried to sell the forward to Premier League clubs to avoid problems stemming from his lack of motivation under Diego Simeone. In turn, Álvarez has held to his contract to reject other destinations, leaving an impasse that appears to hurt everyone.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

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