Atlético Madrid chief Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has delivered a scathing response to Barcelona's pursuit of Júlian Alvarez, accusing the Catalan club of dishonesty and ruling out any negotiations. Speaking to Spanish broadcaster Movistar Plus, Gil Marín stated that the club will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances, with Alvarez set to remain at the Wanda Metropolitano beyond the summer transfer window closes. The statement was backed by Atlético's board of directors, who unanimously ruled out talks with Barcelona and stated there was 'zero consideration' of a transfer.
Gil Marín's comments come after Alvarez was booed by Atleti fans during their 2-2 home draw with Villarreal on Sunday, having stated his desire to leave the club. The 26-year-old forward has been linked with a move to Arsenal, but Gil Marín has expressed his preference for Alvarez to remain in Madrid. "Our intention and my personal dream is for him to stay with us, to remain at Atlético," he said. "To compete amongst the greats, you need great players, and Júlian is one. If he believes that staying at Atlético is no longer feasible, we will look for an alternative, but it will never, ever be Barcelona."