Barcelona hit huge €200m ask for Julián Álvarez from Atlético

Barcelona’s search for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski has been complicated by Atlético Madrid’s valuation of Julián Álvarez. Cadena Ser put the asking price at €200 million (£167m), a fee that would be the second-highest in history behind Neymar’s €222m move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.

The Catalans regard Álvarez as the ideal tactical fit, with sporting director Deco making him a priority, but Atlético have no intention of letting their marquee signing go so soon. Club president Enrique Cerezo publicly ruled out a January move, saying, "Julian is a player under contract with Atletico Madrid and he is happy," and adding that "no one from Barca has officially contacted us about signing him." Atlético are reportedly preparing a lucrative extension to reward the 26-year-old and further inflate his market value; he is under contract until 2030.

Financial and political obstacles at Camp Nou further complicate any approach.

Spain, Barcelona

barcelona, julián álvarez, atlético madrid, robert lewandowski, deco, enrique cerezo, €200m, neymar €222m, camp nou, contract 2030