Julian Alvarez opens door to Barcelona move but Atletico Madrid will demand €150 million | OneFootball

Despite being under contract until 2030 and having a release clause close to €500 million, the situation around Julian Alvarez at Atletico Madrid has become increasingly tense following the end of the 2025/26 season.

The Atletico Madrid hierarchy had been working on a contract extension for the Argentine striker amid strong interest from Barcelona and PSG.

They even believed the renewal issue was under control, despite after months without a response to their proposal. However, the player’s stance has now changed the outlook completely.

Julian Alvarez open to an exit

Indeed, according to MARCA, Alvarez’s priority is to join a more ambitious project capable of competing regularly for major titles, even if that means losing his status as the undisputed star at Atletico Madrid.

Ready to leave. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Barcelona are the club most strongly associated with his intentions. Internally, Atletico sporting director Mateu Alemany is already aware of the player’s desire to move towards a higher-profile sporting project.

Despite there being rumours floating around about a broken relationship with Diego Simeone, the Rojiblancos insist that it is not the case.

Simeone was instrumental in pushing for his signing from Manchester City and has consistently supported him through both strong and difficult periods.

However, the striker’s desire to leave stems from his ambition to compete at the highest level and win trophies, amid interest from Barcelona.

Atletico maintain their position

Despite the growing uncertainty, Atletico Madrid’s position remains firm. The club insists that the player will only leave if a major transfer fee is paid. The minimum valuation set is around €150 million.

Atletico standing firm. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

However, behind the scenes there is some debate. Some voices believe the club should remain strict, while others see a potential opportunity to cash in and strengthen the squad under Alemany’s sporting project.

What is clear is that Atletico will not facilitate his departure easily, especially not to Barcelona.

There is skepticism within the club about Barça’s financial ability to meet such demands, even if alternative formulas such as player exchanges are considered.

Names like Ferran Torres have been mentioned internally as potential bargaining chips, although nothing concrete has developed.

At this stage, Atletico do not rule out any scenario. What they do make clear is that Alvarez will not leave on favourable terms, and certainly not without a significant fee.