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*This content was translated by AI.

'It's a disaster.' Julian Alvarez (26), the Argentine national team striker expected to form a formidable attacking duo with Lee Kang-in (25) at Atletico Madrid, is now in irreparable conflict with the club.

British media outlet 'BBC' reported on the 25th (Korean time) that "the conflict between Alvarez and Atletico has escalated into one of the most painful and public transfer sagas of this summer." The report added that while Alvarez desires a move to FC Barcelona, Atletico firmly opposes it, leaving Arsenal eyeing an opportunity to sign him.

The rift was laid bare at the home stadium. During the La Liga Round 2 home match against Villarreal (a 2-2 draw) held on the 23rd at Madrid's Metropolitano Stadium, fans directed intense boos and mockery toward Alvarez, who was warming up on the bench. Even when he was substituted into the game, the crowd's jeers did not cease.

The cause of the conflict is clear. According to local reports including 'Mundo Deportivo', Alvarez strongly desires a transfer to Barcelona, but Atletico Madrid resolutely refuses any move to a domestic rival. In May, Atletico publicly stated via its official social networking service (SNS), "Do not believe anything related to Barca. There has been a smear campaign against our player in recent months," mocking Barcelona's approach.

Furthermore, Atletico president Enrique Cerezo recently attempted to quell the situation by saying, "Alvarez is an excellent person and will win back the fans' hearts after just two more games." He added, "He is not for sale and will deliver a wonderful performance this season." However, cracks between the player's camp and the club remain unhealed.

The player himself has fueled the transfer saga. During the World Cup, Alvarez publicly stated that "a transfer is the best option," openly expressing his desire to leave. His agent, Fernando Hidalgo, is also reported to be strongly dissatisfied with how the club treated Alvarez this summer. Notably, after Real Madrid's 150 million euro (approximately 223.5 billion won) offer was rejected in June, Alvarez's camp believed the club had broken its promise to allow a transfer if an offer above a certain amount were received.

Taking advantage of the situation, English Premier League (EPL) defending champions Arsenal has actively moved to sign Alvarez. According to 'BBC', Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has identified Alvarez as his top priority and is closely monitoring the situation. Atletico director Mateu Alemany met with Arsenal's leadership in London last week, setting a transfer fee of 150 million euros (approximately 128 million pounds). Arsenal is prepared to immediately deploy funds and finalize the contract once Alvarez agrees.

Alvarez initially insisted on moving to Barcelona and was lukewarm about a move to England due to visa issues, but his stance has reportedly softened recently as Atletico remains adamant that it will never permit a transfer to Barcelona. Meanwhile, Barcelona, citing Atletico's hardline stance, is turning its attention to other attacking options such as Victor Yekkes (Arsenal).

Alvarez joined Atletico in August 2024 after leaving Manchester City for a transfer fee of 81 million pounds (approximately 142 billion won) and has recorded 49 goals in 107 career matches.

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*This content was translated by AI.