FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has confirmed for the first time that the club submitted an official offer to Atlético Madrid for Argentine striker Julián Álvarez.
The statement highlights Barcelona’s intention to strengthen their attacking line with one of the most highly valued forwards in world football at the moment.
Barcelona Submitted Official Bid
Speaking about the negotiations, Laporta revealed that Barcelona directly contacted Atlético Madrid’s leadership and formally presented their offer with full respect.
He said he personally spoke with Atlético officials Enrique Cerezo and Miguel Ángel Gil, informing them of Barcelona’s interest in signing the player.
Atlético Refuse to Sell
According to Laporta, Atlético Madrid made it clear that they have no intention of selling Álvarez at the moment, insisting that they do not have a suitable replacement for the striker in their squad.
This stance has led the Madrid club to firmly retain the player despite the approach from Camp Nou.
"We submitted a respectful offer to Atlético Madrid. They told us they have no intention of selling Álvarez because they do not have a replacement striker," Laporta said.
Laporta also clarified that Barcelona will maintain their position and keep the offer on the table for as long as they consider appropriate, while waiting for any change in Atlético’s stance.
"We will keep our offer available for as long as we see fit. But we will not force anything on Atlético Madrid," he added.
Hope Still Remains
Despite Atlético Madrid’s firm position, Laporta expressed hope that if the club manages to secure a replacement for Álvarez, they could reconsider Barcelona’s offer in the future.
However, Atlético president Enrique Cerezo maintained that no formal offer has been received and reiterated that Álvarez is not for sale at this time.
