Atletico Madrid CEO gave Julian Alvarez his word on a future Barcelona move – report | OneFootball

Barcelona surprised one and all by moving even before the summer transfer window opened to sign Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.

Days later, the club were linked with a move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez but saw a €100 million opening offer turned down.

Subsequently, the Madrid-based club took to social media in an attempt to mock Barcelona over their bid for Alvarez.

Atletico have been firm in their stance that Julian is not for sale, but the player is said to be very keen on joining Barcelona this summer, with PSG also interested.

Miguel Angel Gil Marin’s promise to Julian

Atletico signed Julian from Manchester City a couple of seasons ago, and he went from being in Haaland’s shadow to quickly establishing himself as the star man of Diego Simeone’s team.

Atletico Madrid CEO had made a promise to Alvarez. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Now, according to Jota Jordi on El Chiringuito TV, Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin promised the Argentinian striker that he would help him make the move to Barca.

He said, “Gil Marin promised Julian in February that he would help him move to Barca.”

Jordi then added that Alvarez had made his wish clear 10 days ago, continuing, “Ten days ago, the Argentine told him that he wants to join Barcelona.”

It comes as quite a surprise if Gil Marin did indeed promise this to Alvarez, considering Barcelona are league rivals with whom Atletico are often in the crosshairs.

Barcelona’s dream summer transfer

Robert Lewandowski left the Catalan club at the end of the 2025/26 season after four years, leaving a huge void to fill in the number nine position.

Atletico Madrid have rejected a bid from Barcelona. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Although Barca have Ferran Torres and now Gordon, who can play there, they seem keen to sign a superstar striker who can take the mantle from the Polish veteran.

Alvarez ticks all the boxes of a striker playing in Hansi Flick’s system. Although he may not have the same box presence as Lewandowski, he makes up for it with his intelligence between the lines and clinical finishing in the box.

Everything indicates that this will be a long-drawn-out operation for Barcelona, and in the end, if they can walk away with Alvarez, Hansi Flick would definitely be happy with the attacking options at his disposal next season.