Atlético Madrid has officially confirmed that Julián Álvarez will not be sold to Barcelona, bringing the latest chapter of the transfer saga to a firm end from the Spanish club's perspective.
The decision received unanimous backing from Atlético's Board of Directors, who fully support the club's strategy regarding the Argentine forward.
Atlético released a statement making their position clear... they remain open to transfer negotiations in general, but insist that any discussions must be conducted ethically, professionally and with mutual respect between clubs.
Atlético Reject Barcelona Negotiations
According to Atlético's statement, Barcelona have not met the standards the Madrid club expects in transfer dealings.
The club therefore confirmed that there have been no negotiations with Barcelona for Álvarez and that there will be no negotiations over his transfer.
“We fully support the position previously communicated by the club that FC Barcelona have not met these requirements and, as a result, there have been no negotiations, nor will there be any negotiations with them regarding the transfer of Julián Álvarez"
The announcement comes shortly after Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly reiterated Barça's interest in the striker.
Laporta had said Barcelona would be ready to sign Álvarez if Atlético were willing to sell and reach an agreement over the offer.
Atlético's latest statement makes clear that they have no intention of opening those discussions.
Atlético Expect Álvarez to Remain Focused
Atlético also expressed confidence that Álvarez will understand the club's decision and continue concentrating on his responsibilities with the team.
The club highlighted his contribution during his first two seasons in Madrid and expects him to continue helping the team achieve its objectives.
“Atlético Madrid are convinced that our player will understand the decision and focus on working in the best possible way to help the club achieve its objectives.”
The statement comes amid a turbulent period surrounding Álvarez's future, with reports previously indicating that the forward wanted a move and that Barcelona were particularly interested in bringing him to Camp Nou.
Barcelona Face Major Setback
For Barcelona, Atlético's announcement represents a significant setback in their pursuit of one of their preferred attacking targets.
Laporta had personally contacted Atlético chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín to reaffirm Barça's offer, but the Madrid club has now formally closed the door to negotiations.
With Atlético's Board unanimously supporting the decision, Barcelona would need a dramatic change in circumstances to revive the transfer before the summer window closes.
For now, Atlético's position could not be clearer... Julián Álvarez is staying at Atlético Madrid, and there will be no negotiations with Barcelona over his transfer.