Press reports have revealed the latest developments regarding Atlético Madrid star Julián Álvarez, amid the complexity of his position within the Spanish club's corridors, with his desire to leave and move to Barcelona that summer.
Barcelona attempted to sign Álvarez last June, after submitting an offer to Atlético Madrid, an action that was met with ridicule and mockery from the latter.
Although Álvarez made explicit statements during the World Cup affirming his desire to leave Atlético Madrid, that has not happened yet.
Álvarez returned to Atlético Madrid on Monday to join pre-season training after his post-World Cup holiday ended.
Spanish newspaper "Sport" reported that Álvarez went directly to Atlético Madrid's clinic today for routine medical tests, then left the facilities without visiting the training pitch.
It added that the next step will be joining training on Wednesday, as Álvarez has not considered defiance or disruption and wishes to resolve the matter through diplomatic dialogue with club officials.
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It explained that optimism in Álvarez's camp has decreased from what it was in recent weeks, as Atlético Madrid maintains its firm stance and time is on its side, unlike Barcelona and the player himself.
It noted that executive president Miguel Ángel Gil Marín could play a potential role, as he saw no need to hold a conversation with Álvarez about his future as long as the club's position is clear.
In contrast, Álvarez's camp believes a meeting with Gil Marín is necessary to hear his position personally and understand his viewpoint before a final decision.
Retaining a player for the entire season despite his publicly stated desire to leave would create an uncomfortable situation for all parties.
Álvarez had previously received a promise from Gil Marín some time ago to facilitate his departure if he wished, and the Argentine believes the time has come to speak with the club president again.
Separately, Álvarez held a two-and-a-half-hour meeting with his agents on Monday to discuss plans for handling the tense situation in the coming period, particularly regarding how to arrange a meeting with Gil Marín.
