Laporta Addresses Atlético on Álvarez: "Our Offer Still Stands"

Joan Laporta, Barcelona's president, reiterated the Catalan club's interest in signing Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez this Wednesday. In an institutional statement, the *blaugrana* leader sent a direct message to their rivals, confirming that their offer for the Argentine player stands, though without any intention of meeting his 500 million euro release clause.

Barça's offer is reportedly around 100 million euros. "They should know that if they are willing to sell the player during this summer transfer window, we would be ready to buy him, provided we can reach an agreement on the offer we've made," Laporta explained.

The Catalan president detailed the negotiation process, emphasizing the respect between the clubs. "I want to say that we have great respect for Atlético Madrid and their management. We've known each other for many years," he stated, before explaining the timeline of events. "We made an offer from club to club. I ratified that offer in a personal phone call with Miguel Ángel Gil. They told me they had no intention of selling because they had no alternative for Julián, and I told him we were interested, but we respected their decision, although if they found an alternative in this market, we would maintain our interest in signing him."

Barcelona's interest was reignited after reports emerged that Atlético was negotiating the Argentine international's transfer with other clubs, notably Arsenal. "We received information that Atlético Madrid is negotiating with other clubs for the footballer. We remain in contention with our offer because it's common knowledge that the player wants to come to Barça," Laporta clarified.

The executive insisted that the club has always acted correctly and that the proposal remains valid. "Barça has risen to the occasion. We've done the same as we do with other clubs. We remain present, and the offer is still active. It stands should Atlético wish to sell the player," he concluded.

For Barcelona, Julián Álvarez remains the sole target to bolster their attack this summer, with no other player being considered for the position. Laporta's message serves as a show of support for the forward, who is currently navigating a delicate situation at the *rojiblanco* club.

"We remain very interested in Julián Álvarez. We would like them to accept our offer, and we are doing so with the utmost respect for Atlético Madrid," the Barça president added.