The 26-year-old has been heavily linked with leaving the Estadio Metropolitano after the 2026 FIFA World Cup after publicly declaring his eagerness for a new challenge after two trophyless years in Madrid.
Real Madrid still hold a transfer interest in the Argentinian, after their bold €150M bid was instantly rejected last month, but the player himself only wants to join Barca in 2026.
Los Rojiblancos remain confident they can still hold Alvarez to the terms of his contract in the Spanish capital - which runs until 2030 - and includes an enormous release clause, and the saga looks certain to run on into August.
Former Barca and Atletico star Sergio Agüero has given his view on the situation by indicating Diego Simeone’s side have little choice but to sell an unhappy player if they want to maintain squad harmony.
However, that view is not shared by many inside Atletico, with several rumours hinting at club officials hurriedly speaking to him during the World Cup to try and underline his ongoing importance to their plans for next season.
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo have confirmed contact has also been made from some of Alvarez’s clubmates – including captain Koke – who have reminded him of the 2027 UEFA Champions League final being scheduled for their home base in Madrid.
The squad are hoping the lure of playing in Europe’s showpiece final on home soil could play a part in convincing the former Manchester City forward to stay, but the reality is likely to focus sharply on if Barca can afford a transfer offer, with finances still tight in Catalonia after a tumultuous few years for the LaLiga champions.