Questioned about Julián Álvarez’s future at Atlético Madrid, his manager Diego Simeone confirmed that several major European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, are interested in the 26-year-old striker.
“I can’t read his mind. It’s only natural that a player like Julián is coveted by Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona. It’s only natural because he’s very good,” said the 56-year-old manager to the press on the eve of hosting the Gunners in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.
Having started in 40 of the 47 matches he has played since the start of the season, the Argentine has proved decisive on 28 occasions, scoring 19 goals and providing nine assists across all competitions.
A release clause set at €500 million
Also asked about his plans going forward, Álvarez chose not to pay any attention to the rumours. “I try not to give too much importance to what people say, because the truth is that every week, new things appear, all kinds of information,” he explained before meeting up with Arsenal. “I prefer not to waste energy on that and to focus on what we are doing here at Atleti. I can’t go out and clarify or deny everything that gets published, because it ends up being a snowball of lies.”
Under contract with the Colchoneros until 2030, Álvarez has been the subject of numerous rumours for several months now regarding a potential imminent departure. FC Barcelona, who are looking for a new striker for next season, are reportedly proving the most persistent in their pursuit of his signature.
Aware of the interest sparked by their Argentine striker, who is said to have a release clause of around €500 million, Atlético’s management are said to already be working to try and get him to sign a contract extension.
