Deco Travels to Madrid as Barcelona Keep Álvarez Pursuit Alive

Barcelona have persisted in their pursuit of Julián Álvarez despite Atlético Madrid's steadfast refusal to sell the forward. The club's sporting director, Deco, traveled to Madrid for discrete discussions with Álvarez's agent, Fernando Hidalgo, as the two parties attempted to reignite a stalled transfer. Barcelona's initial bid of €100 million was rejected, and direct communication between the clubs has ceased.

Atlético's leadership believes Barcelona and Real Madrid are attempting to undermine Los Rojiblancos, which has contributed to the impasse. Despite the deadlock, Barcelona remains committed to the transfer, prepared to increase their offer if Atlético demonstrates a willingness to engage. Álvarez's importance to Atlético, having scored 20 goals in the 2025-26 season and 49 in 106 appearances, makes the transfer particularly challenging.

The player reportedly made a public transfer request six weeks prior, alleging that manager Miguel Ángel Gil Marín had broken a prior promise to facilitate an exit. Álvarez, however, is expected to remain professional and will not breach his contract or publicly defy Atlético's stance. Barcelona's continued pursuit is based on the belief that Álvarez desires the move, but the differing positions between the clubs and the strained relationship between them leave no clear path to a negotiated agreement.