Atlético Madrid have confirmed they will not allow forward Julián Álvarez to leave the club during the current transfer window, ending speculation over a potential move to FC Barcelona. Head coach Diego Simeone, speaking ahead of a friendly against Manchester City in Seoul, said the situation was "very clear" and the club had made a firm decision. Chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín stated Atlético rejected a 100-million-euro offer and would not accept bids of 150 million or 200 million either.
Álvarez, who has scored 49 goals since joining from Manchester City two years ago, is due to rejoin the squad on August 10 after a break following Argentina's World Cup final loss to Spain. Simeone drew a parallel with Antoine Griezmann, who left Atlético for Barcelona before returning. Atlético have also filed a complaint with FIFA alleging Barcelona tapped up Álvarez last month.
The coach expressed satisfaction with the arrival of South Korean midfielder Kang-in Lee as Atlético prepare for their La Liga opener against Málaga on August 19.