Atletico Madrid defender expects Barcelona priority target to leave this summer: ‘If he isn’t happy…’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s hopes of signing Julian Alvarez have received another boost after Atletico Madrid defender Marc Pubill admitted that he expects his teammate to depart this summer.

The Argentine striker remains Barcelona’s top attacking target for the 2026 transfer window, and his public admission of desire to leave Atletico has only intensified speculation surrounding his future. 

Alvarez recently urged Atletico Madrid to facilitate a transfer, making it clear that he wants to fulfil a personal dream, widely understood to be a move to Barcelona.

Those remarks sparked mixed reactions within Atletico, ranging from frustration among club executives to greater understanding from players within the dressing room.

Pubill speaks on Alvarez’s future

Speaking from Spain’s World Cup camp in comments to Esport 3, Pubill offered one of the clearest indications yet that an Atletico Madrid departure could be approaching.

Pubill says he expects Alvarez to leave. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

When asked about the ongoing transfer saga involving the Argentine international, the defender acknowledged that the situation has become difficult to ignore.

“If Julian isn’t happy at Atletico, we’ll see what happens, but I understand he will leave,” he began.

Pubill also admitted that Alvarez’s recent public statements “are a bit strange.”

However, the Spanish defender also highlighted the importance of having committed players within a squad, suggesting that dissatisfaction can eventually affect performances.

Alvarez wants to play for Barcelona. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

“He’s a great player and you always want him on your team, but if a player isn’t happy, he stops being such a good player.”

So what now?

Barcelona’s determination to sign the World Cup-winning striker remains unchanged.

Reports indicate that Barça have submitted an offer worth €100 million several weeks ago, although Atletico Madrid responded indirectly by reminding interested clubs that Alvarez’s release clause stands at a staggering €500 million.

Despite that firm stance, Barcelona believe circumstances could evolve as the transfer window progresses, especially if the player continues pushing for a move.