Barcelona gain major advantage in Julian Alvarez pursuit as Arsenal and PSG pushed aside | OneFootball

Barcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez appears to be gathering momentum, with fresh reports suggesting the Argentine striker has already made his preference clear.

The Atletico Madrid forward recently sparked headlines after publicly admitting that he wants a transfer to fulfil a personal dream. 

While he stopped short of naming his desired destination, a new report from Mundo Deportivo claims that Barcelona remain at the top of his list.

Alvarez prioritising move to Barcelona

According to the Spanish outlet, Barcelona and Alvarez are aligned regarding a potential transfer, with both parties eager to find a way to make the operation happen.

The biggest takeaway from the report is that Alvarez continues to prioritise a move to Barcelona above every other option available to him.

After Argentina’s recent World Cup fixture, the Atletico Madrid striker publicly opened the door to a transfer when discussing his future.

Alvarez wants to leave Atletico Madrid. (Photo by Francois Nel/Getty Images)

“I’ve already spoken with the people at the club I needed to speak with. The best thing is a transfer because I want to fulfil my dream.”

Although Barcelona were not mentioned directly, the outlet reports that the player’s dream is to wear the Blaugrana shirt and play at Spotify Camp Nou.

That desire has remained unchanged despite strong interest from elsewhere. 

Alvarez not interested in moving abroad

On that note, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain have both explored the possibility of signing the Argentine international in recent months, but the report claims neither club has been able to change the player’s mind.

Instead, Alvarez is said to be fully focused on Barcelona, viewing the Catalan giants as the ideal next step in his career.

Barcelona’s interest in the Argentine forward is far from recent. The club’s sporting department has been monitoring the striker for months, identifying him as one of the best forwards available on the market.

Barcelona are Alvarez’s preferred destination. (Photo by Jay Biggerstaff/Getty Images)

In fact, discussions have already taken place between Barcelona and the player’s representatives. 

Alvarez’s agent, Fernando Hidalgo, travelled to Barcelona and met sporting director Deco to discuss how a deal could potentially be structured.

Atletico Madrid the biggest obstacle

Another detail highlighted in the report concerns a €100 million proposal sent for the player. 

Atletico Madrid have publicly denied receiving such an offer, but the report insists Barcelona’s interest has already gone beyond simple scouting and admiration.

The Madrid side continue to insist that Alvarez is not for sale and have repeatedly pointed towards the striker’s long-term contract. 

Club executives have also made it clear they would rather avoid strengthening a direct La Liga rival.