Atlético Madrid rejected Barcelona’s approximately €100 million offer for Argentine striker Julián Álvarez in 2026, maintaining that it had no intention of transferring him to a direct La Liga rival. Earlier reporting placed the offer in May, while later reports described Barcelona preparing proposals in the same region during the 2026 transfer window. Álvarez joined Atlético from Manchester City in 2024 in a deal worth up to €95 million and subsequently signed an extended contract running through June 2030, with a reported €500 million release clause. Manchester City monitored his situation during the summer without making a formal approach or submitting a bid. Atlético filed complaints with FIFA and the RFEF, alleging Barcelona had improperly contacted the player after Álvarez publicly said he wanted to leave following Argentina’s World Cup victory on June 22, 2026. Reports in early September described tensions between the clubs over the alleged contact. Apollo Sports Capital’s acquisition of a 55% stake in Atlético in March 2026 has supported the club’s strategy of securing young, high-value players on long-term contracts, reducing pressure to sell. Álvarez returned to training after the summer window closed without a transfer, while any regulatory finding against Barcelona could result in fines or transfer restrictions.