'0% chance' - Atletico hit back at Barca over Alvarez transfer row

Atletico Madrid has firmly stated that there is "zero per cent chance" they will sell Julian Alvarez to Barcelona this summer, claiming they are "the only victims" in the ongoing transfer saga. The 26-year-old forward has expressed a desire to join Barcelona, but Arsenal remains interested in the Argentina international and could potentially make a late move for him. According to The Independent, Atletico would like the situation to be resolved by Friday.

During Atletico's draw with Villarreal on Sunday, Alvarez was booed as a substitute and reportedly missed training on Wednesday, which the club attributed to "illness". In a furious statement released on Wednesday, Atletico accused Barcelona and Alvarez's representatives of spreading "a campaign of lies and half-truths". The club emphasized that the situation is not about money, but rather Alvarez's dignity.

Atletico indicated that they believe Alvarez's future should be decided by Friday, with the forward expected to be fit for their upcoming match against Sevilla in LaLiga on Saturday. Arsenal continues to explore the possibility of a deal for Alvarez, even though the player's preference is to join Barcelona. The club is considering offering a forward, such as Viktor Gyokeres or Gabriel Jesus, in a potential deal, with manager Mikel Arteta aiming to strengthen his attacking options.