Atletico Madrid have announced plans to lodge a formal complaint with FIFA, accusing Barcelona of illegally negotiating with Julian Alvarez while he remains under contract.
The Spanish club’s CEO Gil Marin confirmed the decision, stating: “Our responsibility is to defend the interests of Atletico and that is why we are going to file a complaint with FIFA against Barcelona for negotiating with a player under an active contract during the protected period.”
Atletico have already seen one bid from Barcelona rejected and have released several angry statements as tensions between the two clubs continue to escalate significantly.
The situation has added yet another twist to a saga that has increasingly drawn Arsenal back into the conversation surrounding the Argentine striker’s future.
Alvarez is currently competing at the World Cup with Argentina, and following his country’s victory over Austria, he broke his silence publicly on the matter.
Speaking to ESPN, he said: “The best thing for me is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream. I don’t want to hide or act like I don’t want to be clear. I try to be honest. I spoke to Atletico people and I think the best for everyone involved is for me to leave.”
Barcelona remains the clear destination of choice for Alvarez, but Arsenal could emerge as a genuine alternative should that move collapse entirely.
According to sources involved in secret talks that took place with Barcelona in late May, Arsenal had already pushed hard to secure Alvarez’s signature this summer.
However, the player’s representatives made clear to the Gunners that Alvarez was firmly focused on joining Barcelona, prompting Arsenal to shift their attention to other transfer targets.
Reports from Spain have added another layer of intrigue, suggesting Atletico would prefer to negotiate a deal with Arsenal rather than Barcelona, with a proposed package of 60 million euros plus Viktor Gyokeres being floated.
Gyokeres only joined Arsenal last summer, making it extremely difficult to envision Mikel Arteta sanctioning a departure for the Swedish striker under any circumstances.
Atletico are believed to be monitoring Gyokeres as a potential replacement for Alvarez regardless of how the transfer situation ultimately unfolds in the coming weeks.
Arsenal’s attacking ambitions this summer extend beyond Alvarez, with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers and Bournemouth’s Eli Kroupi Junior both identified as targets at the club.
The FIFA complaint from Atletico could further delay or derail Barcelona’s pursuit, meaning Arsenal’s interest may yet prove more relevant than it currently appears.
The post Atletico Madrid To File FIFA Complaint Over Julian Alvarez Talks As Arsenal Transfer Hopes Revive appeared first on Gooner Daily.
