Argentine sports journalist Hugo Balassone, close to Julián Álvarez’s circle, confidently stated: "Julián wants to join a team that can be champion."
Balassone revealed that the transfer of Álvarez to Barcelona is increasingly likely. According to him, Julián is set to leave Atlético Madrid as his cycle there has ended. There was interest from Arsenal, but the player wants to join a team capable of winning titles.
The transfer fee is estimated around 70 million euros, slightly less than what Atlético paid Manchester City in 2024. Álvarez’s contract with Atlético runs until 2030 with a very high buyout clause, but he is seeking new challenges.
Balassone also suggested that Álvarez could form a strong attacking duo with Lamine Yamal at Barça. The 26-year-old has scored 42 goals in 92 appearances for Atlético. The upcoming World Cup may increase his market value, currently estimated at 100 million euros on Transfermarkt.
Barcelona has been tracking Álvarez for some time and considers him a key candidate to succeed Robert Lewandowski, who may be entering his final seasons at the club before moving to MLS.
