Barcelona’s efforts to sign Julian Alvarez have hit another obstacle as Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo firmly stated that the Argentine forward will not be leaving the club.

The latest Barcelona transfer updates have heavily focused on Alvarez’s situation, with Atletico consistently rejecting any notion of a sale, despite Barcelona’s official offer already submitted.

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The Barcelona bid for Julian Alvarez remains available as Joan Laporta has confirmed that an offer has been sent to Atletico Madrid.

However, with no breakthroughs in negotiations as of yet, the Blaugrana may shift focus to alternative targets if Atletico continues to block the transfer.

Enrique Cerezo on Barcelona’s Julian Alvarez Pursuit

As rumors surrounding Julian Alvarez’s transfer intensify, Cerezo reiterated Atletico Madrid’s stance.

Enrique Cerezo has closed the door on Julian Alvarez’s exit. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

In his public comments, the club president rejected any notion of Alvarez leaving, sending a clear message to Barcelona president Joan Laporta.

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“Julian Alvarez? He’s an Atletico de Madrid player. Or haven’t you got the message yet?”

Cerezo also spoke of his relationship with Laporta, asserting that there is no ambiguity regarding the striker’s future.

“Laporta is a good friend, a great president, and he knows full well where Julián ‘Lopez’ is going to play next year,” he remarked.

Although Cerezo again mistakenly named Alvarez by the wrong surname, his comments were unmistakably clear.

Barcelona’s Pursuit Will Not Halt

The Barcelona transfer for Julian Alvarez remains a top priority for the club this summer, as Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco view the Argentina international as an essential addition to their attack.

Laporta has confirmed Barcelona’s interest in Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

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Nevertheless, Atletico Madrid remains resolute in their refusal to alter their position, even as Alvarez has publicly expressed his desire to leave the club.

Responding to Alvarez’s remarks, Cerezo asserted that they have moved past the situation.

“We all make mistakes in life. He had a slip-up, but everything can be forgiven.”

“I’ll say it again: Julian Alvarez is an Atletico Madrid player and will remain an Atlético Madrid player,” Cerezo emphasized.

Meanwhile, Barcelona has made it clear that they will not wait indefinitely.

Laporta recently confirmed that the club’s offer “will not remain valid forever,” indicating that Barcelona is prepared to pursue alternative options if negotiations do not progress.

Source: SPORT