Álvarez Losing Patience Ahead of Simeone Showdown

Julián Álvarez is expected to speak directly with Diego Simeone this morning and once again make it clear that he wants to leave Atlético Madrid, with Barcelona still his preferred destination. Mundo Deportivo reports that both are due at training at 9:00, with the conversation expected afterwards. 

The significant update is the growing tension behind the scenes. Álvarez had wanted to hold the meeting on Monday, but Simeone was away in Ibiza during two days off, while CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín was also unavailable. According to the report, the striker was frustrated by the situation and has maintained that Atlético should not plan on him staying. He is also said to be willing to take stronger action if dialogue continues to lead nowhere. 

Mundo Deportivo adds that people close to Álvarez claim Atlético have had an understanding with him since February that they would facilitate a transfer this summer. That remains a claim from the player’s camp rather than an officially confirmed agreement. For Barça, the strategy is becoming fairly convenient: wait while the player himself applies the pressure in Madrid.