Atletico Madrid are in advanced talks over a deal to sign Julian Alvarez from Manchester City.
The transfer fee is likely to be in excess of £70million – five times more than what the Citizens paid for the 24-year-old in 2022.
Alvarez joined the Premier League champions for a fee of £14million two years ago from River Plate.. It’s understood that the Argentine star is keen on a move to Spain, but personal terms have not yet been agreed, though that isn’t expected to be an issue.
Arsenal had already expressed an interest in the forward, but Atletico are now leading the charge.
Should a move be completed, Alvarez would likely join Conor Gallagher who is closing in on a £33m move from Chelsea. It also offers good news for the Blues, with Atletico set to soften their stance on Samu Omorodion as they look to sign the forward for a fee in the region of £34million. Since joining City, Alvarez has scored 36 goals in 103 appearances, providing 18 assists along the way. The World Cup winner has also won the Premier League, FA Cup, Champions League and Club World Cup during his stint in England.
He revealed he would consider his future following the Paris Olympics, with a decision expected soon following Argentina’s quarter-final exit to France. Alvarez, who was part of his nation’s Copa America-winning squad this summer, said: “I haven’t stopped to think about what I’m going to do.
“Last season I was one of the players who played the most minutes in the team.
“But it’s true: in the end, in some important games, it’s not pleasant to be left out. I will have time to consider my decision. “I haven’t stopped to think things through calmly. Once the Olympic Games are over, I will take the time to reflect on what I want for myself.
“Maybe it’s annoying to be out in big games; players always want to help on the pitch.”
City boss Pep Guardiola publicly hit back over the 24-year-old’s comments, where he stated he wants a swift resolution as to whether he does intend to leave.
Speaking during the club’s pre-season tour of America, the Spaniard remarked: “I read he has to think about it, so okay think about it and after that he will inform us what he wants to do.
“Julian played a lot. He wants more? It’s fine. So that’s why [he wants to] think about it. And when he thinks about it, he will inform us.”
