Barcelona are still planning to pursue Julián Álvarez, despite Atlético Madrid's firm refusal to negotiate with them over the Argentine striker.
Fabrizio Romano has reaffirmed that Barça's interest has not disappeared and that the Catalan club could return for Álvarez in a future transfer window.
The latest position means Barcelona are not viewing Atlético's current refusal as the end of the saga.
Barcelona Prepared to Try Again
According to Romano, Barcelona intend to keep Álvarez on their radar and could make another attempt if a deal cannot be reached during the current window.
The club's willingness to revisit the situation in January or next summer shows how highly they rate the 26 year old forward.
Barcelona have been searching for a long term attacking solution, and Álvarez remains one of the players they consider capable of strengthening the position.
That interest has survived Atlético's public rejection of their approach.
Atlético Have Closed the Door for Now
Atlético's position, however, remains extremely clear.
The Madrid club's board unanimously backed the decision not to negotiate with Barcelona, arguing that Barça had not handled the situation in a professional and respectful manner.
Atlético have therefore made it clear that they will not discuss Álvarez's transfer with Barcelona during this window.
That creates a major obstacle for Barça because their willingness to try again does not guarantee that Atlético will be willing to listen.
Álvarez’s Preference Keeps the Saga Alive
The player's own preference is another important part of the story.
Álvarez has been strongly linked with Barcelona throughout the summer, while Arsenal have also explored the possibility of signing him.
Recent reports indicate that Arsenal would be acceptable to Atlético, but the player has shown a preference for Barcelona.
That leaves the situation unusually complicated.
Barcelona want the player, Álvarez has been attracted by the possibility of joining Barça, but Atlético currently refuse to negotiate with Barcelona.
Unless that position changes, the Catalan club may have to wait for another opportunity.
Why Barcelona Are Still Interested
The persistence makes sense from Barça's sporting perspective.
The club have already strengthened several areas of Hansi Flick's squad, but the search for a long term attacking option remains important.
Barcelona have now agreed a permanent deal for Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal, yet Álvarez continues to be viewed as a separate target rather than a forgotten option.
Recent reporting also indicates that Barcelona's interest in the Argentine remains active despite the obstacles.
For now, there is no indication that a Barcelona move is close.
Instead, Barça appear prepared to keep the door open and assess whether Atlético's position changes in a future window.
What Happens Next?
The immediate outcome could be that Álvarez stays at Atlético while Barcelona continue monitoring his situation.
If Atlético eventually become willing to negotiate, Barcelona could return to the table.
If the Spanish club maintain their current stance, Barça may have to look elsewhere.
Either way, Romano's latest update makes one thing clear... Barcelona do not consider the Julián Álvarez pursuit finished.