Romano: Atlético’s Offer for Álvarez Reaches €75 Million; CEOs Engage in Direct Negotiations

Recently, there have been numerous rumors about the transfer of Argentine forward Julián Álvarez. During the Olympics, he expressed a desire for more playing time, a statement that clearly targeted the limited opportunities he received under Pep Guardiola.

While clubs like Arsenal have shown interest in Álvarez, it appears that Atlético de Madrid will be his ultimate destination.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Atlético has increased its offer for Álvarez, with the total now reaching €75 million. Atlético CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín and Manchester City executive Ferran Soriano are engaged in direct negotiations.

The Argentine newspaper Olé reports that Álvarez has already become part of the “mattress brigade,” with Atlético securing his release from Manchester City for a base fee of €70 million plus potential add-ons worth up to €20 million.

According to the report, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the transfer is all but done and will set a new record for the highest transfer sale in Manchester City’s history, making Álvarez the most expensive player ever sold by the club.

Álvarez’s decision to leave is not just about professional development but also family considerations. It is reported that after two years in Manchester, his family—including his parents and siblings—will move to Madrid because their residency permits have expired.

Since transferring from River Plate to Manchester City in 2022, Álvarez has consistently delivered impressive performances, scoring 36 goals and providing 17 assists in 103 appearances, helping the team win multiple titles including the Champions League, two Premier Leagues, one UEFA Super Cup, one FIFA Club World Cup, and one FA Cup. However, during his 100 games at City, Álvarez only started 62 times, accumulating approximately 6,000 minutes on the pitch.

Upon joining Atlético, Álvarez will face new competition. The team has recently signed Alexander Sørloth, meaning manager Diego Simeone will need to solve a tactical puzzle: either make choices up front or adjust the formation to effectively combine Álvarez, Sørloth, and Antoine Griezmann in attack.