Despite the persistent noise surrounding a potential move to the Emirates Stadium or Camp Nou, Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has moved to shut down any talk of a departure. Speaking to Egyptian broadcaster Win Win, Cerezo stated: "Julian is a player under contract with Atletico Madrid and he is happy. No one from Barca has officially contacted us about signing him, and that's all there is to it." This defiant message to Barcelona suggests that Los Colchoneros have no interest in selling their marquee signing, regardless of his recent goal drought in La Liga.
Diego Simeone has also jumped to the defence of his star man, who has struggled for form over the winter months. When questioned about the Argentine's lack of goals, a frustrated Simeone fired back: "Seriously? Are you seriously asking me that? The truth is that Julian Alvarez speaks for himself, because of the name he has, the authority he carries, and the career he’s built, right?" While the goals have dried up since November, the manager’s faith remains unshaken.