Julián Álvarez ‘to stay’ at Atlético Madrid until January | OneFootball

Julián Álvarez is to stay at Atlético Madrid until at least January, according to La Sexta and La Pizarra de Quintana, after the club refused to sanction a move to Barcelona.

The Argentina forward had several offers over the summer, notably strong interest from Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, but has decided to remain at the Metropolitano.

The decision is likely made with a view to pursuing Barcelona in future windows, as he is not minded to join other clubs linked with him.

During this summer's World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, he said a transfer would suit everyone and that he wanted to realise his dream, signalling a wish to join Hansi Flick's Barcelona. Atlético later used social media to deny any Barça bid and to joke about signing Raphinha, Lamine Yamal and Pedri.

Beyond social posts, the board were never willing to negotiate with Barcelona, a stance repeatedly set out by majority shareholder Gil Marín, who insisted he wanted Álvarez to stay and that, if coexistence proved impossible, they would seek alternatives but not Barcelona.

Even so, Atlético have tried to move him to a Premier League side to avoid problems from a lack of motivation after missing his dream. Álvarez has relied on his contract to reject other destinations, leaving a situation in which nobody appears content.

Source: Superdeporte

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