Barcelona’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez has dominated headlines for weeks.
The Argentine forward has been identified as one of the club’s major attacking targets, and the Catalans have already tested Atletico Madrid’s resolve with a significant offer.
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Now, however, a new and unexpected rival may have entered the race.
According to journalist Patrick Berger, Real Madrid have made enquiries about Alvarez and hold the Atletico Madrid striker in extremely high regard.
It is a development that few saw coming, particularly given the player’s strong links to Barcelona and the fierce rivalry between the two Spanish giants.
Yet when viewed alongside recent comments from Florentino Perez, the story suddenly becomes far more intriguing.
Real Madrid appreciate Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Before securing another term as Real Madrid president, Perez hinted that the club could make a major move for a world-class player valued at around €150 million.
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“I’m going to make an offer to a Champions League club soon, on Tuesday, which will be the biggest payment Real Madrid has ever made for a player, at least 150 million,” said the president.
Since then, speculation has centred around several names.
Midfielders such as Vitinha and Joao Neves have been mentioned, while Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise has also been linked.
Yet Alvarez was rarely discussed despite being one of the most sought-after forwards in European football, and that may have been a mistake.
Atletico Madrid would sell Alvarez for €150 million. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
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Patrick Berger reports that Real Madrid have already explored the situation surrounding the Argentine international, while Atletico Madrid are willing to discuss a transfer if an offer in the region of €150 million arrives.
Interestingly, that figure is identical to the valuation that has surfaced around Perez’s summer plans.
At the same time, it must be noted that Barcelona remain interested in the player.
In fact, the Catalan club are believed to have already submitted a €100 million proposal for Alvarez, only for Atletico Madrid to reject it without hesitation.
So now, if Atletico are prepared to negotiate only at a much higher figure, Real Madrid may be one of the few clubs capable of seriously testing their resolve, as Barcelona just cannot afford to take such an outrageous financial risk.
