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

Julian Alvarez has reportedly refused to answer a phone call from Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal, as the Argentine striker pushes to avoid a Premier League return. The forward is currently at Atletico Madrid but wants to move to Barcelona instead.

Alvarez Stuck in Transfer Limbo

With the summer transfer window closing soon, Alvarez finds himself uncertain about his next step. Although Arsenal have shown strong interest, Alvarez is resisting a move back to England. This has created problems for Atletico Madrid, who want to sell the unhappy player to fund new signings.

The club sees a move to England as ideal to get the best fee, but Alvarez is blocking that option by refusing to engage with Arsenal. Atletico does not want to keep a discontented player on their books.

Refusing to Talk to Arsenal

According to reports from Spain, the former Manchester City player is taking extreme measures to avoid a Premier League return. El Chiringuito host Josep Pedrerol revealed:

"They tell me that the other day, Julian Alvarez did not want to answer Mikel Arteta's phone call. 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 Waiting for Atletico to Agree

With Arsenal's pursuit stalled, Barcelona are watching closely, hoping Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin will allow a domestic transfer. Tensions between the clubs have risen, especially after Atletico president Enrique Cerezo publicly criticized Barcelona during the negotiations, which surprised many at Barca.

"Atletico needs him to move there. They don’t want an unhappy player on the roster and they need the funds for new signings," said Pedrerol. "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."

Pedrerol added that Cerezo’s unusual public involvement caught Barcelona off guard. Many think if the club prioritized its best interests, Alvarez would be sold already.

Atletico Faces Pressure as Deadline Nears

Time is running out for Atletico Madrid to solve this complicated transfer situation. If they cannot reach a deal with Barcelona or find another buyer, coach Diego Simeone may have to reintegrate a very unhappy player into his squad.