Julian Alvarez’s agent publicly addresses talk of rejected Atletico Madrid contract, Barcelona preference | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez continues to be the subject of transfer talk, despite having a long contract at the Metropolitano, and declaring that he is content in the Spanish capital. Names such as Barcelona and Liverpool have been mentioned, but so far there is little more than admiring glances.

This week there has been talk in the Spanish capital that Los Rojiblancos, who are delighted with their Argentine star, had offered Alvarez a new contract, despite being in just his second season in La Liga. The 25-year-old has another 4.5 years left on his current deal.

‘Fanciful hypotheses’ – Julian Alvarez’s agent

The story went that Alvarez had turned down said deal. However agent Fernando Hidalgo has come out to set the record straight, and told Calciomercato (via Sport) that there was no truth.

“Nothing being written is true. These are just fanciful hypotheses at this point.”

Image via Angel Martinez/Getty Images

Hidalgo fueled Barcelona speculation this summer

It was Hidalgo himself that fueled speculation earlier this year though, when he commented on supposed interest from Barcelona, noting that Alvarez has an affection for the Catalan club.

“He received many calls, but Atletico’s position is that Julian will stay next season. He admires Spanish clubs, and having followed Leo’s career since he was a kid, I don’t think there are many Argentinians who don’t have a fondness for Barca, especially given the team’s performance this season.”

How real is Barcelona’s interest in Julian Alvarez?

Reports from the Catalan capital say that Barcelona greatly admire the World Cup-winner, and in particular, President Joan Laporta has been impressed by his performances. His versatility, and the fact Barcelona are looking for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski play into that admiration. Yet with Barcelona’s salary limit struggles, and Atletico’s desire to hang onto him, it remains a ‘fanciful hypothesis’ for the moment too. In contrast to Antoine Griezmann’s ‘affordable’ release clause of €120m, Alvarez’s clause is set at €500m.