Transfer news: The Julián Álvarez deal is becoming clearer, one door closes for good

The Julián Álvarez saga continues to dominate the summer. While the Argentinian still dreams of playing for Barça, a competing option has just collapsed, narrowing down his choices. According to the Catalan press, he now has only one remaining path to leave Atlético this summer. Analysis.

The Julián Álvarez situation is gradually becoming clearer. According to Sport, the Argentinian striker has resumed his individual training plan, following Atlético de Madrid's directives, like the other players still on vacation after the World Cup. This impeccable behavior dispels any notion of rebellion: at Atlético, there is no doubt he will report for training, whatever his future holds. The World Cup winner remains true to his stance, expressed during the tournament: his desire is indeed to leave the Madrid club and join FC Barcelona.

But while his desire hasn't changed, the context has. According to Sport, Arsenal have almost definitively withdrawn from the race, which could prove decisive. The London club failed to convince either Álvarez or their own striker, Viktor Gyökeres, who could have been included in a swap deal. This possibility is all the more dead since Gunners manager Mikel Arteta himself confirmed on Sunday that the Swede would remain in London. As a result, the Argentine's only remaining option for a change of scenery this summer would be Barcelona.

Barça waits patiently, Atlético is in a delicate position

The situation remains complex, however. Atlético has so far only closed the door on Real Madrid, whose €150 million offer was rejected, and Barcelona, deeming their proposal too low and conducted through what they considered inappropriate channels. Álvarez, for his part, has always been clear internally: if he leaves, only Barcelona interests him. He rejoined the squad on Monday, and the key question is whether he will take the decisive step of publicly expressing his desire to leave again. This point of no return could change everything, potentially weakening his standing with the fans and his coach, which already seems to be the case after his comments in the mixed zone at the World Cup.

Diego Simeone, who met with his player in person during the World Cup, doesn't want footballers who don't wish to stay. The scenario is reminiscent of João Félix, pushed out through a series of loans before finally being transferred. At Barça, they are waiting for this move and its consequences, without rushing into anything. The Catalan offer hasn't been rejected, and the club says it's convinced an agreement is still possible. If Atlético agrees to open the door to negotiations, the financial offer could then be increased to provide a satisfactory solution for all parties. The standoff, however, is only just beginning.