Barcelona president Joan Laporta fires fresh warning in Julian Alvarez pursuit as Atletico stand firm | OneFootball

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has once again stoked speculation surrounding a potential move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.

He insists the Catalan giants have already made an offer but will not be drawn into an endless negotiation.

Laporta arrived in Dallas ahead of the World Cup semi-final between France and Spain.

However, questions quickly turned towards Alvarez, who has been one of Argentina’s standout performers in the tournament.

He enjoyed a superb season at Atletico, registering 10 goals and four assists in 15 Champions League appearances, while also contributing eight goals and four assists in 29 La Liga matches.

Barcelona have identified the 26-year-old forward as one of their top attacking targets, with manager Hansi Flick reportedly keen on adding a world-class No.9 to his squad.

Laporta made it clear that the club remain interested but will not overpay for the Argentine.

“We’re not going to dance to anyone’s tune. We set the pace here,” Laporta said (via Marca).

“We have made an offer, but it is not an open-ended offer. It is not unlimited. We will see how long it remains valid.

“We have already expressed our intention to sign the player that the coach and the technical staff requested. We like Julian a lot, and I think he is a fantastic player.”

The comments come after Atletico Madrid issued a strong response to Barcelona’s interest, making it clear that Alvarez will only leave if his €500 million release clause is triggered.

The Madrid club are unhappy with the situation after Alvarez hinted that a transfer could benefit all parties, though he stopped short of naming Barcelona as his preferred destination.

Laporta also attempted to calm tensions between the two clubs, insisting there has been no escalation in talks.

“I understand we have a very good relationship with Atletico. There was some confusion regarding the offer we made, and I clarified it,” he explained.

“We haven’t put any more pressure on them.”

Meanwhile, Laporta confirmed that Raphinha remains a key part of Barcelona’s plans despite transfer speculation surrounding the Brazilian winger.