Atlético Madrid threatens FIFA action over Barcelona’s Julián Álvarez approach

Atlético Madrid has warned FC Barcelona that it will take legal action unless the Catalan club pays Julián Álvarez’s €500 million release clause. The dispute centres on Barcelona’s attempts to sign the Argentina international, who remains under contract at Atlético Madrid. Julián Álvarez publicly stated after Argentina’s 2-0 World Cup win over Austria that a transfer would be best for all parties. The 26-year-old forward, who scored in the match as a substitute, reiterated his desire to leave Atlético Madrid following the tournament. Barcelona submitted a bid for Álvarez that was rejected by Atlético Madrid. Real Madrid also failed with a €150 million offer. Atlético Madrid mocked both approaches on social media, telling Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez: “You make us laugh even harder than Barcelona.” Sources at Atlético Madrid told Diario AS that Barcelona’s past conduct—citing the Antoine Griezmann transfer in 2019—raises concerns. Atlético claims Barcelona promised payments to Griezmann’s family and agent during negotiations. Griezmann completed his move for €120 million in July 2019.

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Atlético Madrid insists no amount will secure Álvarez’s transfer. “Either they pay the €500 million release clause, or nothing happens,” a club spokesperson said. The club has already decided to file a complaint with FIFA over Barcelona’s approach to a contracted player. Atlético Madrid accused Barcelona of routinely bending rules, referencing the Negreira case and prior contacts with players from rival clubs. “Everyone knows this is a club that stretches the rules,” the spokesperson said. “But this time they are dealing with a club that won’t let it slide.” Álvarez, speaking in Dallas on Monday evening, said: “I don’t think this is the right time to talk about it, but I can’t hide it or pretend otherwise. I try to be honest. I’ve spoken with the right people at the club. I think a transfer is best for everyone—I want to fulfil my dream.”

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The Argentina international netted in the World Cup victory over Austria, his first goal for his country since the 2022 final. He has scored 15 goals in 38 appearances for Argentina since his debut in 2021. Atlético Madrid’s stance remains uncompromising. The club has drawn a clear line: no negotiation without payment of the release clause, and no tolerance for rule-breaking approaches to their players.