La Liga: Barcelona, Atlético Madrid escalate Álvarez transfer standoff

The transfer saga surrounding Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez has intensified, with Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly reaffirming his club's strong interest. Laporta stated that Barcelona would be ready to buy Álvarez this summer if Atlético is willing to sell, emphasizing that their offer remains valid.

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We are still very interested in Julián Álvarez.

Laporta revealed he had personally contacted Atlético's chief executive, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, to present Barcelona's proposal. He indicated that Barcelona received information suggesting Atlético might be open to selling, prompting their continued offer. "We are still very interested in Julián Álvarez," Laporta said, stressing that Barça would like their offer to be accepted while maintaining "the utmost respect for Atlético de Madrid."

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If they are willing to sell Julián Álvarez during this summer transfer window, we would be ready to buy him.

However, Atlético Madrid issued a strong rebuttal, declaring "There is 0% chance of selling him to Barça." The club asserted that the player is being victimized and that Atlético itself is the sole victim of the situation, which has caused significant financial and social damage. Atlético insisted the dispute transcends money, focusing on "dignity" and accusing unnamed parties of spreading "many lies and half-truths."

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We have a great deal of respect for Atlético de Madrid and its directive. We have known each other for many years.

The starkly opposing public stances have created an extraordinary impasse. Barcelona remains publicly committed to their offer and negotiation, while Atlético has unequivocally stated they will not sell the Argentine forward to their rivals under any circumstances.

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It’s clear that our offer remains valid until the end of the market.