Atletico Madrid block Barcelona, leave Alvarez for Arsenal

Atletico Madrid have declared a 0% chance of selling forward Julian Alvarez to Barcelona, even as Arsenal and Barcelona continue to pursue the 26‑year‑old Argentina international who publicly wants to leave the La Liga side. He returned as a second‑half substitute in Sunday’s 2‑2 draw with Villarreal, only to be booed by fans.

Player's wish and media coverage

Kieran King, Senior Sports Writer, recorded his report at Writer21:09 on 26 Aug 2026, noting that ImagesJulian of the forward appeared alongside an Arsenal(Image) caption and a Getty photo, accompanied by additional Images. Alvarez, 26, the Argentina international, made his intentions clear in June, saying the best thing for everyone is a transfer and that he wants to fulfil his dream. He reiterated that leaving Atletico Madrid would be the right step for his career.

The striker returned to the pitch on Sunday as a second‑half substitute in a 2‑2 draw with Villarreal at the Wanda Metropolitano. Supporters booed him after coming on, signalling their displeasure with his expressed wish to depart the club.

Alvarez missed training on Wednesday, with the club attributing his absence to illness. The episode added to the tension surrounding his future at Atleti.

Simeone clears path for Barcelona as Alvarez sale looms

Atletico's stance on Barcelona bid

Barcelona president Joan Laporta claimed a £85.7 million bid for the forward remained on the table, a figure reported by . Atletico Madrid responded by stating there is a 0% chance of completing any deal with Barcelona before the window closes. The club said the issue is not about money but about dignity, accusing Barcelona of victimising the player while the only victim is Atleti.

Atleti added they have been harmed economically and socially by what they described as a campaign of lies. They warned that any business with Barcelona would be blocked, a stance that could benefit Arsenal.

Arsenal's pursuit and deadline

Arsenal remain keen on signing Alvarez, viewing him as an extra threat to their front line as they aim to retain the Premier League title and challenge in the Champions League. The Gunners are active in the market ahead of the September 1 deadline, especially after Vinicius Jr decided to stay at Real Madrid.

If Barcelona’s offer is rejected, Arsenal could move forward with negotiations before the transfer window shuts. Atletico have made clear that any sale would require payment of Alvarez’s vast buyout clause.