On the back of the forward’s outstanding 2025/26 campaign, in which he scored 20 goals in 49 appearances, the Argentina star has been subject to constant transfer reports.
Alvarez has said he wants to leave Atletico and feels a transfer is “the best thing for everyone” but no offer is yet to be agreed as the summer window rages on.
Barcelona and Champions League holders are said to be the favourites to snap up Alvarez and as interest grows, Simeone has opened up on the future of the 26 year old who seems destined to depart.
“He is the best footballer we have at Atlético de Madrid, without a doubt he is among the top 5 in the world. If he stays, we have planned to generate the game around him.”
“Well, I actually ran into him today on my way to visit Julian for a bit, and we chatted a little—mostly about how he’s doing right now, how his ankle was holding up, and how important he is to the team.
“He told me he was feeling great, that he was already at 100 percent.
“He’s an extraordinary player, the best footballer we have at Atlético de Madrid – his stats speak for themselves too.
“He’s had a very good run of form and has brought something special to the team as a player, and well, we’re very pleased with his work.
“His future, above all, lies in tomorrow’s match, and the best thing for him is to focus on that – not to dwell on all these issues that have obviously come to light – so that they don’t cause him any confusion, and things will sort themselves out as they always have in life.”
Alvarez has racked up a total of 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 appearances for Atleti since joining the club in an £81.5M move from Manchester City back in 2024.
He currently has a €500M (£431M) release clause in his contract which makes his move away from the side awkward.