Atletico Madrid make move to stave off Barcelona interest in Julian Alvarez | OneFootball

Amid uncertainty over his situation, Atletico Madrid are in contract talks with Julian Alvarez currently. The Argentina international is the priority target for Barcelona in the summer to become the long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, but Los Colchoneros have consistently denied that he is for sale.

Alvarez himself has declared on multiple occasions that he is happy in the Spanish capital, but has also refused to rule out an exit in the summer, which has given Barcelona hope that they can sign him. Whether they can put together the financial package that would be acceptable for Atletico is another matter, but there has also been interest from Arsenal, who would have less of an issue doing so.

Atletico Madrid in contract talks with Julian Alvarez

Less than two years into his stint at the Metropolitano, Matteo Moretto has confirmed to TV3 that Atletico are in talks with Alvarez to extend his contract, which currently runs until 2030. The new deal would also include a wage rise for the 26-year-old. The move is not only inspired by Sporting Director Mateu Alemany, but new majority ownership group Apollo Sports Capital are also keen to renew his deal.

Alvarez request to leave could change matters

Moretto does not that Alvarez is the dream signing for Barcelona President Joan Laporta, and that as a result, talks are likely to happen. For his part, Alvarez is happy in Madrid, but has left the door open to a move, which is why speculation continues. Alemany is aware that it will be difficult to retain Alvarez if he asks to leave.

Barcelona are briefing that they will be within their salary limit for the first time in five years, which could facilitate more signings this summer. Yet in order to fund a deal for Alvarez, they may well have to consider one or two significant sales.