Julian Ćlvarez to Stay at AtlĆ©tico Madrid, Barcelona’s Transfer Plans Shift
As the 2024-25 La Liga season nears its end, AtlĆ©tico Madrid has confirmed that star forward JuliĆ”n Ćlvarez will stay at the club, putting an end to months of speculation about a potential move to FC Barcelona. The decision is a major blow to the Catalan side, who had hoped to secure the Argentine striker to strengthen their attacking line under new manager Hansi Flick.
AtlĆ©tico sees Ćlvarezāwho has netted 29 goals this seasonāas a key figure for their future. Backed by Diego Simeone, the club is committed to building a team around him to challenge for domestic and European honors.
Meanwhile, Barcelona is preparing for a summer of major transition. Several players, including Ansu Fati, Pablo Torre, VĆctor POW, and IƱaki PeƱa, are expected to leave, either on loan or permanent deals. Fati is especially close to joining AS Monaco.
Despite financial constraints, Barcelona remains ambitious. The club is pursuing Luis DĆaz (Liverpool) and Marcus Rashford (Manchester United) to bolster their attack. DĆaz is highly valued by Flick and has expressed interest in joining BarƧa, though his ā¬70ā85M price tag may pose challenges. Rashford, eager to make the switch, is even willing to take a pay cut, with a deal potentially valued at ā¬47M.
Internally, the club is securing the future of 17-year-old talent Lamine Yamal, who is set to become the highest-paid player under a new La Liga youth regulation.
Barcelona is also eyeing Joan GarcĆa, the young Espanyol goalkeeper, as a long-term prospect. With a release clause of ā¬25ā30M, GarcĆa has also attracted interest from Arsenal and Newcastle.
AtlĆ©tico Madridās move to retain Ćlvarez underscores their growing ambitions, while Barcelona must now adapt and pursue other targets to stay competitive both in Spain and in Europe.