Barcelona president Joan Laporta has accused Atletico Madrid of acting without justification during the breakdown of Julian Alvarez’s proposed move to the Spanish champions.
Alvarez surprised Atletico Madrid during the 2026 FIFA World Cup by expressing his desire to leave the club and join LaLiga rivals Barcelona. However, Atletico Madrid repeatedly insisted they would not sell the Argentina international to the defending Spanish champions.
The dispute developed into an angry exchange between the two clubs, with Alvarez ultimately remaining in the Spanish capital. Barcelona’s interest continued despite Atletico Madrid’s position, with Laporta previously saying the club’s offer would stay available until transfer deadline day on 1 September.
The proposed deal did not meet Atletico Madrid’s expectations. After Barcelona were told there was a “0% chance” of signing Alvarez, Arsenal were linked with a possible offer, although no formal bid was made. Alvarez was unconvinced by the prospect of returning to the Premier League.
Laporta said Atletico Madrid had handled the situation inappropriately and suggested the club had been willing to sell Alvarez to any other side.
“Atletico have shown their true colours. They acted as though they were the offended party - they had no way of justifying their attitude. We did what's normally done - as there were talks between the clubs and I personally spoke to Gil Marin.
“He told me Julian wasn’t coming because they didn’t have an alternative, then Atletico reacted inappropriately. I don't know what caused it. I can imagine why, but I have no proof.
“We heard reports they would sell Julian to anyone in the world except Barca. They were ready to sell Julian to any club in the world, but not to us.
“It’s already the past, we’re now very happy with our squad.”