Atletico Madrid ‘laughing’ at Real Madrid links to star player | OneFootball

The speculation over who Real Madrid President Florentino Perez will make a blockbuster move for continues, with no clear indication over whether it has indeed been sent, or who for. Last Thursday, Perez said he would be sending a €150m bid for a player on Tuesday.

Perez would not reveal who that player was, but promised an attempt to break the Real Madrid transfer record. Last week it was reported that Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise was the priority, but Paris Saint-Germain duo Vitinha and Joao Neves were alternatives. Yet it has been noted publicly in Bayern’s case, and privately in PSG’s, that none of the three stars are for sale, for €150m or more. In recent days, it has also been suggested that Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez could be the subject of their pursuit.

Atletico Madrid laugh off Real Madrid links

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Given Alvarez is Barcelona’s preferred target for the number nine spot, it would certainly be something of a coup if Perez was able to pull the deal off. There may also have been a degree of people putting two and two together, as a number of reports have suggested that Los Colchoneros would consider selling Alvarez for €150m. Cadena SER say that so far they have heard nothing from Real Madrid, but that they have been laughing at the idea of Alvarez signing for Los Blancos, and that even if they did arrive with a bit, it would not be listened to.

Alvarez clause may not be €500m for everyone

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One of the main reasons Atletico have felt as if they are in a position of strength is that the Argentina international has a €500m release clause. With little chance of that being activated, and Alvarez under contract until 2029, there is little danger of them being strongarmed into an agreement. Yet Ben Jacobs has suggested to GMS that certain Champions League clubs are able to sign Alvarez for a number less than the €150m negotiation point that has been suggested.