Arsenal told Julian Alvarez's transfer 'dream' as Atletico Madrid block Barcelona deal | OneFootball

Transfer saga heats up as Atleti threaten Barca with legal action

Atletico Madrid have admitted that Julian Alvarez's "has a dream" as tensions with Barcelona rise over the Arsenal target.

Atleti insist that the only way Alvarez leaves for Camp Nou is if Barca trigger his 500 euro (£431m) release clause, which has open the door to a move to Arsenal.

Reports in Spain claim the Gunners could offer Viktor Gyokeres in part-exchange for Alvarez.

Alvarez has not hidden his desire to leave, telling ESPN earlier this week: "I don't think it's the right moment to talk, but I also don't want to hide. I try to be an honest person.

Julian Alvarez

Getty / London Standard

"I spoke with the people at [Atlético] who I needed to speak with. I think the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream."

Responding to the player, Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin said: "Julian has a dream, and we at Atletico have dreams too. It’s true that he’s spoken with us, but it’s also true that he’s fully aware of our position because we’ve been very clear.

"Atletico doesn’t want to transfer his rights. He’s a great player, and we’re very proud that he plays for us."

Atletico are now ready to officially report Barcelona to FIFA, as Gil Marin explained: "Our responsibility is to defend the interests of Atletico Madrid, and that is why we are going to file a complaint with FIFA against Barcelona for negotiating with a player who had a valid contract during the protected period."