Julian Alvarez Rejects Mikel Arteta’s Call as Atletico Madrid Forward Seeks Barcelona Transfer
Julian Alvarez has reportedly ignored a phone call from Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, as the Argentine striker resists moving back to the Premier League. Currently at Atletico Madrid, Alvarez is unhappy and aiming for a transfer to Barcelona, leaving his current club in a difficult position.
Alvarez Stalls Atletico Exit Plans
The forward faces uncertainty with the transfer window closing soon. Despite Arsenal’s interest, Alvarez is not keen on returning to English football, which complicates Atletico Madrid's attempts to sell him. The club wants to raise funds for new signings and prefers not to keep a player who is dissatisfied.
Striker Avoids Arteta’s Call
According to reports from Spain, the refusal to even answer Arteta’s call shows how far Alvarez is pushing against a move to Arsenal. On the show El Chiringuito, Josep Pedrerol said:
"They tell me that recently, Julian Alvarez did not want to answer Mikel Arteta’s phone call. He didn’t pick up because he doesn’t want to return to the Premier League, while Atletico needs him to go there to avoid an unhappy player and to get money for new signings."
Barcelona Await Atletico’s Decision
With the Premier League option stalled, Barcelona are watching closely. The Catalan club hopes Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin will agree to a domestic transfer, though tensions between the clubs have risen. Atletico president Enrique Cerezo has openly criticized Barca during this saga, surprising many since he rarely comments publicly.
Pedrerol added: "Atletico needs him to move on. They don’t want an unhappy player in the squad and need funds for new signings. Barcelona is hoping Gil Marín will eventually set pride aside and allow Julian to join Barca, as it’s the only real option left. Barca was very surprised by Cerezo's involvement and criticism. If the club’s best interests mattered, he would be sold."
Pressure Builds on Atletico to Finalize Sale
As the transfer deadline nears, Atletico Madrid must decide whether to accept a deal with a direct competitor or risk keeping a discontented Alvarez. Without an agreement with Barcelona or another buyer, coach Diego Simeone may have to reintegrate a player whose desire to leave is clear.
- Player: Julian Alvarez
- Current Club: Atletico Madrid
- Interested Clubs: Arsenal, Barcelona
- Manager Contact Ignored: Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)
- Transfer Window Status: Closing soon
- Atletico President: Enrique Cerezo (critical of Barca)
- Atletico CEO: Miguel Angel Gil Marin (decision pending)
