Julián Álvarez, a prominent player for Atlético Madrid, has expressed his efforts to disregard speculation surrounding potential moves to Arsenal and Barcelona. Despite consistent denials from club President Enrique Cerezo that Álvarez is available for transfer and a contract extending until 2030, the World Cup winner has been frequently linked with a move to Camp Nou this year.
Nonetheless, reports persist suggesting he is Barcelona’s primary target to succeed Robert Lewandowski this summer. Additionally, Arsenal, Atlético’s opponent in the Champions League semi-finals, and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly interested, with Barcelona being his preferred destination according to these reports. In response to these rumors, Atlético is reportedly planning to double his salary in a new contract to ensure his commitment.
Julián Álvarez Responds to Future Rumors
Speaking to the media before Atlético’s match against Arsenal, Álvarez was questioned about the ongoing speculation.
“I try not to dwell on it too much because something new comes out every week, new information, and I don’t waste my energy on that. Instead, I try to focus on what we’re doing. This is the most important time of the season, and I want to be in top form so I can help the team and achieve great things here,” he told Marca.
“I can’t be constantly clarifying or denying things. I don’t pay attention to what’s on social media because it often becomes a snowball of lies. That’s why I don’t waste energy on it and I save it for the things that interest me and for what I can do to help the team.”
Álvarez on the Arsenal Clash
The conversation then shifted to their upcoming semi-final against Arsenal, and Álvarez indicated that his teammates are determined to make history.
“We’re having a very good season. If we reach the final, we’ll have played every game of the season, and that’s what we’re focused on. We’re doing well as a group, and we want to make history ourselves.”
The Argentina international did not express a strong preference regarding playing at the Metropolitano first or second, stating it depends on perspective.
“It depends on how you look at it; it can be better or worse. In the Copa against Barcelona, we did well playing at home first with that 4-0 win, and against Club Brugge, we started away. The important thing is to play two great matches. These games are decided by details; we play the first one with our fans, and we hope to take the advantage.”
Atlético is set to face Arsenal on Wednesday night at 21:00 CEST in Madrid, with the return leg scheduled for Tuesday in London.
