Diego Simeone says Arsenal, Barcelona and PSG are interested in ‘extraordinary’ Julian Alvarez | OneFootball

Julian Alvarez’s future has been one of the talking points ahead of Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg clash between Atletico Madrid and Arsenal.

Alvarez has several admirers, given his performances this season, particularly in the Champions League. He is the fourth highest goalscorer in the competition with nine goals.

Manager Diego Simeone has now revealed that Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona are interested in the Argentine.

He said: “I understand that it is normal that an extraordinary player like Julian (Alvarez) is wanted by Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Barcelona. It’s normal, because it’s very good.”

Simeone then added that the club are not ‘concerned’ about his future. Atletico are reluctant to sell the 26-year-old, who is under contract until 2030 and has a €500 million release clause.

Meanwhile, Alvarez had previously reacted to the various transfer reports. He claims he will not ‘waste energy on that and to focus on what we’re doing here at Atleti‘.

He missed the chance to win his first silverware for the Rojiblancos earlier this month, losing on penalties to Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final.

He scored the equaliser which sent the game to extra-time, but missed a penalty during the shoot-outs.

Alvarez now has the opportunity to make amends by helping Atletico to win the Champions League.

He is expected to lead Atleti’s attack against Arsenal on Wednesday, as they aim to be in control of the tie ahead of next week’s second leg at the Emirates Stadium.

The two sides met during the league phase, with Arsenal triumphing 4-0.