Julian Alvarez Rejects Mikel Arteta's Call as He Pushes for Barcelona Transfer

Julian Alvarez Turns Down Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta

Julian Alvarez, currently at Atletico Madrid, has reportedly ignored a phone call from Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. The forward is determined to avoid a move back to the Premier League, focusing instead on a potential transfer to Barcelona.

Alvarez Hesitates Over Atletico Departure

The Argentine striker finds himself stuck at Atletico Madrid as the transfer window nears its end. While Arsenal has emerged as a strong contender to sign him, Alvarez is resisting any return to England’s top flight. This reluctance presents a challenge for Atletico, who want to sell the player to fund new signings.

Los Rojiblancos are keen to offload the discontented forward but face trouble securing a deal to England. Their preferred option was a lucrative sale to the Premier League, yet Alvarez’s refusal is complicating matters.

Striker Ignores Arteta’s Attempt to Reach Him

Reports from Spain reveal the extent of Alvarez’s resistance. According to El Chiringuito presenter Josep Pedrerol, the player even avoided answering Arteta’s call. Pedrerol explained,

"They tell me that recently, Julian Alvarez did not want to answer Mikel Arteta’s phone call. Arteta reached out, but Alvarez chose not to pick up because he does not want to return to the Premier League. Atletico needs him to go there since they want to avoid keeping an unhappy player and need funds for new signings."

Barcelona Waits Patiently for Atletico to Agree to Domestic Deal

With Alvarez blocking the Premier League path, Barcelona is carefully watching the situation unfold. The Catalan club hopes Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin will eventually accept a domestic transfer.

This saga has stirred tension between the rival clubs. Pedrerol pointed out that Barcelona was caught off guard by Atletico president Enrique Cerezo's rare public criticism of Barca during this dispute, which is unusual since Cerezo typically avoids commenting publicly.

"Atletico wants Alvarez to move on. They don’t want an unhappy player in their squad and need the money for reinforcements. Atletico is in a tough spot, and Barcelona hopes Gil Marín will swallow his pride and allow Julian to join Barca, as that seems to be the only real option available. Cerezo’s involvement has surprised Barca; usually, he doesn’t take a stand but has openly criticized Barca several times," said Pedrerol.

Pressure Builds for Atletico to Sell Before Deadline

As the transfer deadline approaches quickly, Atletico Madrid faces mounting pressure to resolve this issue. Their position weakens with time running out.

The club must decide if it will negotiate with a direct competitor like Barcelona. Without an agreement or an unexpected buyer, coach Diego Simeone may have to manage the difficult task of reintegrating a visibly unhappy Alvarez into the team.

• Player: Julian Alvarez
• Current Club: Atletico Madrid
• Interested Clubs: Arsenal, Barcelona
• Manager contacting player: Mikel Arteta (Arsenal)
• Atletico CEO: Miguel Angel Gil Marin
• Atletico President: Enrique Cerezo
• Coach: Diego Simeone