Barcelona under RFEF probe over Julián Álvarez’ case

In the quiet corridors of the Spanish football federation, officials sift through a formal complaint that could reshape a high‑profile transfer. Barcelona has been placed under investigation by the Real Federação Espanhola de Futebol (RFEF) after Atlético Madrid accused the Catalan club of irregular contact with Argentine striker Julián Álvarez’. The probe adds a new chapter to the ongoing saga surrounding the player’s future in the European market.

The investigation was launched following a complaint filed by Atlético on 30 June, triggering an extraordinary disciplinary procedure conducted by the RFEF. This step marks the first formal action taken since the allegation was raised, according to reports in the Spanish press.

Both Barcelona and Atlético will now have the opportunity to submit their versions of events before the RFEF decides whether any rules governing negotiations between clubs and contracted athletes have been breached. The federation’s decision will hinge on whether the alleged contact occurred before the period permitted by the transfer Mercado regulations.

At the heart of the dispute is the claim that Barcelona approached Julián Álvarez before the allowed window. The 26‑year‑old forward is under contract with Atlético Madrid until June 2030, and the Madrid club maintains that any unauthorized dialogue constitutes a violation of the rules.

Weeks before the formal complaint, Atlético director Gil Mar publicly warned that the club would turn to the sports authorities if any irregular attempt involving the number 9 was identified. The subsequent filing of the complaint was a direct consequence of that public stance.

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Spanish media indicate that Barcelona has already been officially notified of the procedure. Internally, the club treats the RFEF decision as part of the standard process for such cases and is preparing a defence to counter Atlético’s accusations.

Despite the investigation, Barcelona’s interest in Álvarez remains undiminished. President Joan Laporta admitted in July that the club submitted a proposal to Atlético for the striker, but the offer was rejected, and the Madrid side continues to regard the Argentine as a key piece of its squad.

Atlético Madrid’s position stays firm, showing no willingness to open negotiations and emphasizing Álvarez’s importance to the team. The club’s stance reinforces the tension between the two rivals.

During the World Cup, Julián Álvarez expressed a desire for a new challenge, fueling speculation about a possible departure. Nevertheless, he remains tied to Atlético and is expected to return to preseason training on 10 August, a date seen as decisive for the future of the relationship.

Barcelona continues to monitor alternative targets in case Atlético’s resistance persists, creating two parallel tracks: one within the market negotiations and another before the sports tribunal where the RFEF will assess any alleged irregularities.