Barcelona president Joan Laporta has reaffirmed the club's interest in signing Julián Álvarez from Atlético Madrid, making it clear that Barça remains ready to pursue the Argentina international if Atlético are willing to negotiate.
Laporta said Barcelona would like their offer for the striker to be accepted, while stressing that the Catalan club continues to approach Atlético with respect.
His comments come as the transfer saga enters its final stages of the summer window.
“We are STILL very interested in Julián Álvarez.”
“We would like our offer to be accepted, and we are doing so with the utmost respect for Atlético de Madrid.”
Laporta Sends Clear Message to Atlético
Laporta went further by publicly inviting Atlético Madrid to reopen negotiations.
“If they are willing to sell Julián Álvarez during this summer transfer window, we would be ready to buy him.”
The Barcelona president added that a transfer would depend on the two clubs reaching an agreement over Barça's proposal.
The situation remains complicated, however. Atlético have repeatedly resisted selling their star forward, while Álvarez has been pushing for a move and has reportedly preferred Barcelona as his destination.
Barcelona's pursuit has also created tension between the two clubs, with Atlético having previously objected to Barça's approach for the Argentine.
The transfer saga has therefore become one of the major stories of the summer window.
Laporta Personally Contacted Atlético's Gil Marín
Laporta also revealed that he personally reaffirmed Barcelona's offer to Atlético chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín.
“We have a great deal of respect for Atlético de Madrid and its directive.”
“We have known each other for many years. I ratified the offer sent with a call to Miguel Ángel Gil.”
The comments underline Barcelona's determination to keep the possibility of an agreement alive despite Atlético's resistance.
Recent reports suggest the situation remains unresolved, with Barcelona still monitoring Álvarez while Atlético continue to insist on keeping control of the player's future.
Álvarez Transfer Saga Enters Crucial Stage
For Barcelona, Álvarez remains a major target as they look to strengthen their attack.
The 26 year old has been unsettled at Atlético and has reportedly wanted a move to Barça, while Barcelona have continued to regard him as their preferred option.
However, Atlético's position remains a major obstacle. The Madrid club has previously pointed towards Álvarez's €500 million release clause, making a negotiated transfer dependent on Atlético's willingness to accept Barcelona's proposal.
With the transfer window approaching its final stages, Laporta's latest comments make Barcelona's position unmistakable... If Atlético open the door, Barça are ready to sign Julián Álvarez.