Alvarez left out of Atletico squad amid Barcelona transfer speculation

Speculation surrounding the future of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez has intensified following his omission from the squad for the club's friendly against Marseille. The Argentine forward's absence has fueled reports of growing interest from Barcelona and his own desire to leave the Madrid club.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Alvarez's exclusion was anticipated as he has only recently completed five days of physical training with Atletico. The report further claims that Alvarez is keen on a move to Barcelona and has expressed his reluctance to continue playing for Atletico in a meeting with head coach Diego Simeone. His representatives have reportedly requested an urgent meeting with Atletico's chief executive, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín.

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Alvarez is keen to leave Atletico and is interested in a move to Barcelona.

Alvarez is among a group of players who will miss the Marseille clash, having only recently returned to preseason preparations. Other notable absences include Rodrigo De Paul, Marcos Llorente, and Juan Musso, who are not expected to travel. Additionally, Alexander Sørloth remains sidelined due to an injury.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Alvarez's situation, head coach Diego Simeone is reportedly still considering the 26-year-old as Atletico's primary striker. Attention now shifts to Atletico's La Liga opener against Malaga on August 19, where returning international players may feature if deemed fit.

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Alvarez reportedly met with head coach Diego Simeone on Wednesday, with the striker said to have expressed his reluctance to continue at the club.