Chelsea and Arsenal remain firmly in the transfer picture for Julián Álvarez, and the striker has now added fresh intrigue to the situation with comments about his future after facing Tottenham in the Champions League.
The Atlético Madrid forward delivered a standout performance in the first leg of the round of 16 against Tottenham Hotspur, scoring twice and providing an assist in a 5-2 win at the Metropolitano.
However, his post-match remarks have drawn attention in Argentina. According to TyC Sports, the 26-year-old did not fully commit to staying at Atlético next season when asked directly about his future.
The comments arrive while interest from England continues to grow. As previously reported, both Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with the striker, with the Gunners even submitting a €100m plus €20m (£85m + £17m) offer that Atlético rejected.
Álvarez comments spark fresh speculation
Álvarez responded cautiously when questioned about his plans beyond the current campaign.
“I don’t know, maybe yes, maybe no. I’m happy here. I think about the day to day and I work to improve. I have never said anything or spoken badly about the club. I’m very grateful and today the fans showed me their affection again.”
He also addressed the constant speculation circulating online.
“My future? I have nothing to say, except that I’m happy here at Atleti. On social media people talk a lot, but they are just things people say. Anyone can publish what they think or believe and it keeps growing. I never said anything.”
Those comments arrive while the striker continues to attract strong interest across Europe. Arsenal previously submitted a proposal worth €100m plus €20m in bonuses (£85m + £17m), which Atlético rejected.
Meanwhile, Argentine reports recently suggested Chelsea have held the most advanced contacts with the player’s camp.
Performance against Tottenham
Julián Alvarez
Julián Alvarez
Álvarez’s display against Tottenham ensured he returned to the spotlight. The Argentine assisted Marcos Llorente early in the match and soon added the opening goal after a mistake from goalkeeper Antonín Kinský. He later sealed his brace on a counterattack with a precise finish across goal.
The performance also confirmed Álvarez’s recovery from a difficult spell in front of goal. The World Cup winner had previously endured a drought of 16 matches and 65 days without scoring.
He ended that run in the Copa del Rey against Barcelona and has since scored in the Champions League against Club Brugge and in La Liga against Real Oviedo.
Reflecting on that period, Álvarez said: “I was always calm. I feel good. There were a few weeks when things weren’t working, but I always give everything on the pitch. Things can go better or worse, but I always play at 100%. That’s why the coaching staff and my teammates value me.”
For now, Atlético sit third in La Liga with 54 points and will also face Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey final.
Meanwhile, with Premier League interest already well documented, Álvarez’s careful wording ensures the discussion around a potential move to Arsenal or Chelsea will continue to gather attention.
🇳🇱 Micky van de Ven | Tottenham star struggling
📉 “Doomsday scenario”
💬 “We’re being dealt blow after blow”
💬 “It’s a truly terrible time”
❌ “Completely done with” – Not looking at phonehttps://t.co/FvxXFHEE5n #thfc #coys
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) March 11, 2026