Throughout the 2026 summer transfer window, Barcelona pushed very hard to prise Julian Alvarez away from Atletico Madrid. But despite having the player’s will, those at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano refused to negotiate with a direct rival, which is why the Argentine striker remains in the Spanish capital until January at least.
Barcelona did consider alternatives to Alvarez, but ultimately, no one was deemed good enough. It’s why they only signed Gabriel Jesus as a rotation option, with [the intention being to re-approach Atleti in 202](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/barcelona-to-pursue-key-transfer-target-again-in-january-despite-gabriel-jesus-signing/)7 in order to finally get their man.
Unfortunately for Barcelona, Atleti’s stance on Alvarez will not soften as time goes on, with [MD](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/atletico-madrid/20260902/1004222579/atletico-advierte-barca-respecto-julian-invierno-proxima-temporada.html) reporting that they will continue to refer to the 26-year-old’s release clause. Los Colchoneros hope their star striker will re-integrate and move on from this saga in the coming weeks and months, and if so, it will make it easier to hang on to him if the Catalans come calling again as expected.
This summer showed that Atleti were able to withstand strong pressure from both Barcelona and Alvarez, and they intend to adopt a similar approach in 2027 and beyond. They will only sell on their terms, which is why they continue to refer to his release clause – the Spotify Camp Nou side will not pay this, given that it’s valued at a whopping €490m.
Barcelona will have money to spend in January on a striker, and depending on how the first half of the 2026-27 season goes, a decision will be made at that time whether to go for someone. Alvarez will be their leading target again, but as long as Atleti continue to insist on not selling to a direct rival, there will be nothing they can do to bring him to Catalonia.