Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez has missed a second consecutive day of training, reportedly due to illness, fueling speculation about a potential transfer. Arsenal has shown long-standing interest in the player, with club staff having previously assessed his suitability for their team. The situation is further complicated by Atletico's firm stance against selling Alvarez to rival club Barcelona, who have also expressed significant interest.
Alvarez has been the subject of fan discontent, having been booed before, during, and after Atletico's recent La Liga opener against Villarreal. Following the match, Atletico coach Diego Simeone stated that club directives prevented Alvarez from acknowledging the fans. This follows Alvarez's expressed desire to leave Atletico during the World Cup to pursue a move he described as fulfilling a dream.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has indicated that the Catalan club's interest in Alvarez remains, stating that their offer is still on the table if Atletico decides to sell. However, Atletico has publicly declared a "zero percent chance" of selling to Barcelona, citing economic and social harm. Reports suggest Atletico would consider offers around €150 million (£130 million) from other clubs, despite the player having a release clause of £428 million. Atletico has reportedly rejected a £129 million bid from Real Madrid earlier in the summer. The club is also reportedly frustrated by Alvarez's rejection of a new contract in March and his failure to meet a summer transfer deadline set for June 20.