Atlético Madrid’s head coach, Diego Simeone, has acknowledged that he is not taken aback by the reports regarding transfer interest in striker Julián Alvarez.
Alvarez joined Atlético last summer in a transaction valued at £82 million ($111.3 million), yet he is already being linked with a departure from the club, as various clubs across Europe are reportedly showing interest in what is undeniably an ambitious transfer.
In the Premier League, both Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly pursuing his signature, while speculation regarding interest from Barcelona has been heightened by remarks from Alvarez’s agent, who revealed that the Argentina international has a fondness for the La Liga champions.
President Enrique Cerezo has already made a straightforward attempt to close the door on any possible exit, and now Simeone has commented on Alvarez’s future, stating that Los Rojiblancos must ensure his satisfaction if they wish to quell the rumors.
“It’s logical,” he remarked to La Nación regarding the interest in Alvarez. “I can’t envision any other scenario.
Julián is 25 years old; he is an exceptional player, filled with ambition, enthusiasm, humility, diligence, and goals… how could anyone not desire him? Barcelona, PSG, Arsenal, Liverpool… the elite must want him. For us, as Atlético supporters, it should be a point of pride that he is sought after by all. Why? Because he belongs to us.
“And since he belongs to us, we must take care of him.
We need to ensure he feels content. How can he achieve happiness? By winning.
To reach that goal, we all need to contribute 110%. And not solely for him, of course, but for everyone involved.
“Supporting Atlético’s ambition to retain Alvarez is the reported existence of a release clause in his contract, which extends until 2030, valued at an astonishing €500 million (£421.3 million, $571.1 million).
Any inquiries regarding the Argentina international are anticipated to be directed towards that amount.
Alvarez had a remarkable debut season with Atlético, receiving numerous accolades for his smooth adaptation to a system where, under Simeone, many have previously faced challenges.
He scored 29 goals across all competitions, also providing seven assists for good measure.