- The forward has faced challenges in securing his position against Erling Haaland
Atletico Madrid has finalized an agreement with Manchester City for an initial fee of €75 million (£64 million) for Julian Alvarez, marking his departure from Manchester City just two-and-a-half years after joining from River Plate in 2022.
The transfer fee for the striker could potentially reach €95 million (£81 million) with performance-based incentives.
Despite Manchester City’s desire to retain the Argentine talent, Alvarez is reportedly eager to secure more playing time.
Diego Simeone has shown significant interest in Alvarez, although the 24-year-old has garnered attention from several elite clubs, including Premier League foe Chelsea.
Recent developments have escalated Atletico’s pursuit, with discussions even considering the inclusion of Joao Felix as part of the deal to facilitate the transfer.
Julian Alvarez is preparing to leave Manchester City for Atletico Madrid on a permanent basis
Mail Sport disclosed on Monday that Felix might be proposed to Pep Guardiola’s team on loan with an option to buy.
City had previously expressed interest in the Portuguese player prior to his challenging loan experience at Chelsea in 2023.
Even though Alvarez logged considerable minutes last season with the City squad, he openly expressed his interest in being part of crucial matches.
‘Last season, I played significant minutes at City. However, you don’t enjoy being omitted from critical games; you yearn to contribute.’
‘I will take my time to reflect on what is best for me. We will make a decision after the Games, hopefully after a few days off.’
The acquisition of Alvarez is the latest development in a flurry of activity for Atletico, who is also working on bringing Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher to the Spanish capital for a fee of £33.7 million.
Gallagher, a product of the academy, is anticipated to sign a five-year contract with Atletico after being informed by the London club that he was unlikely to feature in new coach Enzo Maresca’s plans for the upcoming season.
Alvarez’s arrival could clear the way for Samu Omorodion’s exit – potentially towards Chelsea
With Alvarez now on board, Simeone’s squad may be more open to releasing another forward target of Chelsea’s – young talent Samu Omorodion.
Negotiations between the clubs have been held regarding a potential £30 million transfer as they seek to enhance their attacking options.
However, Omorodion, currently competing in the Olympics with the Spanish national football team, is attracting interest from various European clubs.
Chelsea might find competition from teams like AC Milan, Roma, and Nottingham Forest in their pursuit of the 20-year-old.
