Laporta: Julián Álvarez Offer Has Expiration; Raphinha Remains Key Player

Barcelona President Joan Laporta has clarified the status of the club's pursuit of Argentinian forward Julián Álvarez, stating that the offer made to Atlético de Madrid is not indefinite. Laporta, who arrived in Dallas to support the Spanish national team, indicated that Barcelona will set the pace in negotiations.

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We have made an offer, but that offer is not 'sine die,' and at the appropriate time, we will say until when we maintain the offer's validity.

"We have made an offer, but that offer is not 'sine die,' and at the appropriate time, we will say until when we maintain the offer's validity," Laporta announced. He declined to disclose the financial details of the potential transfer but emphasized that the offer was made with the intention of signing a player highly valued by the coach, Hansi Flick, and the technical staff. Laporta noted that he had a clear conversation with Atlético CEO Miguel Ángel Gil regarding the offer, which has not progressed further since the initial clarification.

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We have no interest in him leaving Barça. On the contrary, Raphinha is a key player in our team.

Despite the club's recent acquisitions of forwards Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi, Laporta asserted that Brazilian player Raphinha is still considered a vital part of the squad. "We have no interest in him leaving Barça. On the contrary, Raphinha is a key player in our team," Laporta stated. He lamented Raphinha's inability to perform at full capacity last season due to injuries, suggesting that the team's results in crucial matches like the Copa del Rey semifinal and the Champions League might have been different had he been fully fit.

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The last time I was talking with Miguel Ángel Gil (CEO of Atlético), we spoke very clearly and very well. I understand that we have a very good relationship with them.

Laporta also shared his enthusiasm for the newly signed player, Adeyemi, describing him as a player the club has admired for a long time. He praised Adeyemi's "beautiful, very fast game" and specifically commended Deco, the club's sporting director, for his "great job" in finalizing the transfer. The president indicated satisfaction with the timing of the announcement, stating that it occurred precisely when it was intended.

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He has a beautiful, very fast game and we must outstandingly praise the signing to Deco, who has done a great job.