ATLÉTICO MADRID SET TO REPORT BARCELONA TO FIFA OVER JULIÁN ÁLVAREZ TRANSFER APPROACH

ATLÉTICO MADRID SET TO REPORT BARCELONA TO FIFA OVER JULIÁN ÁLVAREZ TRANSFER APPROACH Atlético Madrid are reportedly preparing to file an official complaint to FIFA against FC Barcelona over alleged improper contact regarding striker Julián Álvarez, amid escalating tensions between the two Spanish clubs over the Argentine forward’s future. The dispute follows claims that Barcelona have been exploring a move for Álvarez despite the forward still being under a long-term contract with Atlético Madrid. Atlético officials believe Barcelona may have engaged in discussions with the player’s representatives outside permitted transfer regulations, prompting the club to consider formal legal action. Club CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has strongly criticised Barcelona’s approach, accusing the Catalan side of disrespecting transfer protocols and undermining contractual stability in European football. The controversy intensified after Álvarez recently expressed his desire to leave Atlético Madrid in order to “fulfil his dream,” a statement that further fueled speculation about a potential move to Camp Nou. Atlético Madrid, however, have maintained a firm stance that the striker is not for sale, pointing to his €500 million release clause as the only possible route for any transfer. Reports in Spain suggest Barcelona are considering a major bid for the Argentine forward as part of their long-term attacking rebuild, particularly with uncertainty surrounding their current frontline options. The Madrid club’s leadership insists that no formal negotiations have been authorised and that any attempt to approach the player without permission constitutes a breach of FIFA regulations. Atlético are now expected to escalate the matter by submitting a complaint to FIFA, arguing that Barcelona’s actions represent repeated misconduct in transfer dealings involving contracted players. Barcelona have not publicly responded to the allegations, but sources close to the club maintain that all contact has been conducted within legal frameworks.