Atlético Madrid have reportedly rejected a €150 million offer from city rivals Real Madrid for the transfer of star striker Julián Álvarez.
According to reports, Real Madrid formally confirmed the approach in a statement released following a meeting of the club’s Board of Directors. The statement indicated that the club had submitted an official bid to Atlético Madrid for the Argentine international forward.
Real Madrid's statement read:
"Real Madrid C.F. announces that, following today's meeting of the Board of Directors, the club has submitted an offer of €150 million to Club Atlético de Madrid for the registration rights of player Julián Álvarez."
However, Atlético Madrid responded swiftly, confirming that they had reviewed the proposal but decided to reject it despite the substantial amount offered.
In their response, Atlético thanked Real Madrid for the offer and acknowledged the good relationship between the two clubs, but pointed to the player's release clause as the reason for refusing the proposal.
"After reviewing and evaluating the offer, Club Atlético de Madrid thanks Real Madrid for the proposal, made within the framework of the good relationship that exists between the two clubs, and rejects the offer in accordance with the player's release clause."
Reports suggest that Álvarez's release clause stands at €500 million, a figure that has strengthened Atlético Madrid's position and made them unwilling to negotiate a transfer at this stage.
Since joining Atlético Madrid, Álvarez has established himself as one of the club’s most influential players. His goal-scoring ability, tireless work ethic, and versatility across the attacking line have made him one of the most sought-after forwards in European football.
FC Barcelona were reportedly the first club to make a move for the striker with an offer of €100 million, but Atlético Madrid stood firm, indicating that any potential deal would require significantly more than €150 million.
