Julian Alvarez Rejects Mikel Arteta's Call as Atletico Madrid Forward Pushes for Barcelona Transfer

Julian Alvarez has reportedly declined a phone call from Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, as the striker seeks to avoid returning to the Premier League. The Argentine forward is currently at Atletico Madrid but is unhappy and eager to move on. Atletico are keen to sell him to raise funds for new signings, yet Barcelona remain patient, waiting for a domestic deal to take shape.

Alvarez Hesitates Over Atletico Exit

The summer transfer window is closing soon, and Alvarez faces an uncertain future. Although Arsenal have become the leading contenders for his signature, Alvarez does not want to play in England again. This refusal puts Atletico in a difficult position since they want to sell the disgruntled player but cannot force a move to the Premier League.

Atletico need cash for new additions and prefer not to keep a player who is unhappy with the situation. Their ideal outcome would have been a profitable transfer to England, but this plan has stalled completely.

Striker Ignores Arteta’s Call

Reports from Spain reveal just how strongly Alvarez is resisting joining Arsenal. The former Manchester City star is said to be avoiding any negotiations with the London club. On the program El Chiringuito, journalist Josep Pedrerol shared details about the player's stance.

"They tell me that the other day, Julian Alvarez did not want to answer Mikel Arteta’s phone call," Pedrerol said. "Arteta called Julian and he didn’t pick up because Julian Alvarez does not want to return to the Premier League, and Atletico need him to go to the Premier League because they don’t want an unhappy player and need money to sign."

Barcelona Wait for Atletico to Relent

With the Premier League route blocked, Barcelona are watching closely. The Catalan club hopes Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin will eventually give in and approve a move within Spain. This ongoing saga has stirred tensions between the two clubs, especially after Atletico president Enrique Cerezo publicly criticized Barcelona, an unusual move for him.

Pedrerol added, "Atletico needs him to move there. They don’t want an unhappy player on the roster and they need the funds for new signings. Atletico is in a difficult spot, and Barcelona is hoping Gil Marín will eventually swallow his pride and allow Julián to join Barca, as it is the only real option available."

"Barca has been very surprised to see Enrique Cerezo get involved in the fray. Cerezo usually avoids taking a stand, yet he has been openly criticizing Barca in several statements - an attitude that has caught the club off guard. If the club’s best interests were the priority, he would be sold."

Pressure Builds on Atletico to Find a Solution

Time is running out for Atletico Madrid to untangle this transfer puzzle before the deadline closes. Their negotiating power diminishes rapidly as days pass.

The club must decide if it will compromise and negotiate with a direct rival. Without a deal with Barcelona or another surprise buyer, coach Diego Simeone may have to bring back a deeply unhappy player into the squad, which would be a tough challenge.