Atletico Madrid are accelerating their pursuit of Julian Alvarez from Manchester City, and the move could impact Napoli and Chelsea’s fortunes. The Spanish club, having lost both Memphis Depay and Alvaro Morata in recent weeks, are on the verge of reaching an agreement for the Argentine striker.
While a final deal has not yet been struck, this week could prove decisive. Atletico and City are in discussions to finalize the valuation and transfer terms. Reports suggest the fee could be around five times the €14 million City paid River Plate for Alvarez in 2022. The 24-year-old has already expressed openness to the move, and personal terms are not expected to be an obstacle.
Alvarez, a two-time Premier League champion who also won the FA Cup and Champions League with City, scored 19 goals and provided 13 assists in 54 appearances across all competitions last season. He has also been a key figure for Argentina, winning two Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
His potential arrival at Atletico could facilitate the departure of Samu Omorodion to Chelsea. The Blues’ initial offer of €32.5 million plus bonuses was rejected, but a new bid is expected, with a deal potentially being reached at around €40 million.
Interestingly, The Athletic reports that Omorodion’s potential move to Chelsea would not hinder the London club’s pursuit of Victor Osimhen. Negotiations for the Nigerian striker continue, as do talks regarding Romelu Lukaku’s possible transfer to Napoli.
