Julian Álvarez: Atlético determined to keep him at all costs

Madrid, Spain — Atlético Madrid have drawn a line in the sand over Julian Álvarez, telling suitors across Europe that the Argentina forward is not for sale at any price. With Barcelona, Chelsea and a clutch of Premier League rivals registering firm interest, the club has countered by placing an upgraded, salary-boosted contract on the table, sources confirmed on Tuesday.

Álvarez, 24, is tied to the Metropolitano until 2030, but that long-term security has not deterred would-be buyers from testing Atlético’s resolve. The Madrid side invested €75 million to secure his signature in 2024 and now values the striker at roughly double that figure, yet president Enrique Cerezo insists the calculus is irrelevant. “We have no intention of letting our star leave,” Cerezo said, underlining the club’s stance that the player is central to future ambitions.

The proposed new deal would significantly raise Álvarez’s current wages, rewarding the forward’s instant impact and aiming to remove any incentive to listen to external offers. Negotiations remain ongoing, and while the final decision rests with the player, Atlético’s message is unambiguous: every financial lever will be pulled to ensure he continues in red-and-white next season and beyond.