- Julián Álvarez missed Atlético Madrid training due to illness as his Barcelona transfer saga continues, with Arsenal also monitoring the situation.
Julián Álvarez missed Atlético Madrid's training session on Wednesday morning is due to illness as speculation over his future at the club continues, according to Marca. The Argentine has trained with Atlético since returning to the squad on August 10 but has yet to feature in a match amid fitness concerns.
Atlético refuse to consider Barcelona transfer
The player continues to favor a move to Barcelona, but Atletico remains on their firm stance to not sanction a sale to Barcelona in any case. They have publicly reiterated their stance multiple times, while Alvarez publicly expressed his desire to join the Catalan side.
The situation has also created growing frustration among Atlético supporters. Banners criticizing Álvarez appeared outside the Metropolitano, while sections of the fanbase booed the striker during the team's presentation.
Arsenal Remains Attentive to Álvarez's situation
The disappointment of fans and the stance of the player haven’t affected Atlético's decision to not sell him to Barcelona; meanwhile, Arsenal remains attentive to the situation and hopes to sign him if the right opportunity arrives before the transfer window closes.
The Gunners have already approached Atlético, but their proposal has not convinced the Spanish club, while Álvarez has shown no indication that Arsenal is his preferred destination.