Álvarez misses second training session as Simeone reportedly accepts sale

Julián Álvarez has missed Atlético Madrid training for a second consecutive day, while reports suggest Diego Simeone would now accept his departure. Barcelona have another reason to remain hopeful. Permission to buy him, however, is still conspicuously absent.

The Argentine missed Thursday’s session after sitting out Wednesday’s training through illness. AS confirmed his latest absence as Atlético continued preparations for Saturday’s away match against Sevilla.

According to 20minutos, illness was again given as the explanation. There is no confirmation that Álvarez refused to train to force a transfer. Declaring a rebellion requires rather more evidence than an empty space in a training drill.

Simeone’s position is a separate issue. Barça Universal, citing Gastón Edul, reports that the coach has accepted the possibility of selling the forward, having grown frustrated with the disruption surrounding his future.

That remains a journalist’s report, not a public announcement from Simeone. Even if accurate, it does not settle the question of where Atlético would allow Álvarez to go.

In comments to Marca carried by Reuters, Atlético ruled out selling him to Barcelona and framed their position as a matter of dignity. A coach’s willingness to lose a player does not override the board’s choice of buyer.

Joan Laporta is keeping Barcelona’s offer alive. In his Wednesday remarks, reported by 20minutos, the president reiterated the club’s interest and pointed to reports of Atlético discussing a sale with other teams.

Laporta can repeat his interest as often as he likes. An offer does not become accepted through the sheer number of appearances in front of a camera.

Barcelona therefore have another development to follow, but no signing to announce. The decisive answer will not come from a training report.