Barça maintains offer for Atlético's Julián Álvarez

FC Barcelona President Joan Laporta has reiterated the club's interest in signing Atlético Madrid's Argentine forward Julián Álvarez, stating that Barcelona's offer remains valid. Laporta suggested that the player himself seems keen on a move to the Catalan club. "The Barça proposal is still valid in case they want to sell. It seems the player wants to come to Barça, so we maintain our intention to sign the player," Laporta said in statements released by the club.

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The Barça proposal is still valid in case they want to sell. It seems the player wants to come to Barça, so we maintain our intention to sign the player.

Barcelona has identified Álvarez as their primary target to strengthen their attack before the transfer window closes. Laporta detailed the club's efforts, including a significant offer made to Atlético Madrid, which he personally confirmed with Atlético CEO Miguel Ángel Gil. However, Gil reportedly informed Laporta that Atlético would not sell their star player due to a lack of alternatives.

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And I told him that, when they have an alternative, if it is in this summer window, we are in a position to acquire the services of the player.

Despite Atlético's stance, Laporta claimed Barcelona has received information suggesting Atlético is in negotiations with other clubs to potentially transfer Álvarez. This information, he stated, compels Barcelona to keep their offer on the table, as they would prefer the player to join them rather than a rival. Barcelona has reportedly made inquiries through trusted contacts who have relationships with Atlético's management, but these contacts have also indicated no sale is planned.

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This information obliges us to maintain the offer we presented because we would be interested in the player signing for us and not for another club.

Laporta emphasized his respect for Atlético Madrid but stressed his desire to reach an agreement if Atlético decides to sell. This statement comes after Gil Marín recently told EFE that Álvarez's continuity at Atlético is certain, and the club needs him to compete at the highest European level. Álvarez, a World Cup winner with Argentina, was notably absent from Atlético's training session on Wednesday.

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I have a lot of respect for the Madrid club and its directors.