Julián Álvarez wants to leave Atlético Madrid: «A transfer suits all» | OneFootball

Julián Álvarez dropped a bombshell about his future at Atlético Madrid in the middle of the 2026 World Cup: he made it clear that he is hoping for a transfer in the next transfer window, while Barcelona and Real Madrid battle it out for him.

Shortly after his part in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria, in which he scored both goals, La Araña was asked about his plans for next season and stated that he wants to be transferred.

The Córdoba-born striker was asked about PSG’s interest and the offers from Real Madrid and Barcelona. “Honestly, I don’t know. I don’t think this is the right time to talk about it, but I can’t hide or play dumb either. I try to be an honest person. I spoke with the people at the club I needed to speak with,” he said in an interview with ESPN.

“The best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfill my dream,” Julián Álvarez said, making it clear that he is waiting for a sale in the next transfer window, while Spain’s two giants fight over him.

Julián Álvarez’s statements

The 26-year-old striker from Córdoba is the top target for both Barcelona and Real Madrid. Los Blancos made an official €150 million offer to sign La Araña. Atlético rejected it outright, just as happened with Barcelona (who offered €100 million): they are sticking to the €500 million release clause.

Amid the uproar in Spain and Atlético’s sharp response on social media, Enrique Cerezo—the club’s president—broke his silence.

“Julián is not for sale,” was all the Atlético Madrid president said on El Chiringuito, reaffirming the club’s stance of not negotiating Julián’s departure (especially not with their two biggest rivals in Spain) and sticking to the release clause.

Atlético’s position has been clear for months: Julián Álvarez will not be sold for less than the amount stated in his contract’s release clause, which exceeds €500 million.

The episode now opens a new chapter in the European summer saga: if Madrid want to keep pushing, they will have to get much closer to that figure or explore other options. Julián, for his part, has already made his position clear in the middle of the 2026 World Cup: he wants to be sold.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.