Atletico reject €150m Real Madrid bid for Julian Alvarez

Real Madrid’s ambitious attempt to sign Julian Alvarez has been firmly rejected by city rivals Atletico Madrid, despite a reported €150 million offer for the Argentine forward.

The bid was the first major move by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez after securing re-election on Sunday. During his campaign, Perez had pledged to make a blockbuster €150 million signing if he returned to office, and Alvarez emerged as his chosen target.

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However, Atletico swiftly turned down the proposal, pointing to the striker’s €500 million release clause and making it clear they have no intention of selling one of their prized assets.

“After reviewing and evaluating the offer, Club Atletico de Madrid has expressed its gratitude for the proposal and has rejected it,” Real Madrid said in a statement.

Atletico Mock Real’s Pursuit

Atletico later responded with a sharply worded message on social media, dismissing suggestions that the offer had ever been seriously considered.

“You may have confused politeness with gratitude, but to be clear: we don’t thank you for anything. We neither studied nor considered any offer for Julian,” Atletico posted on X.

The club added that Alvarez remains untouchable and is not available for transfer under any circumstances.

Alvarez Central to Atletico’s Plans

The 26-year-old joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in a deal worth £81.5 million in 2024 and is under contract until June 2030.

A key figure for Diego Simeone’s side, Alvarez scored 20 goals in 49 appearances last season, including eight in La Liga and 10 in the UEFA Champions League, helping Atletico secure a top-four finish and reach the Champions League semi-finals.

The World Cup-winning forward has also been included in Argentina’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Perez’s Search for a Galactico Continues

Spanish media had previously linked Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, but Bayern president Herbert Hainer dismissed the speculation.

“If Florentino Perez wants to send us an offer, which has not happened so far, he can save himself the trouble,” Hainer said.

With Atletico standing firm on Alvarez and Bayern unwilling to discuss Olise, Perez may now have to look elsewhere as he seeks the marquee signing promised during his successful re-election campaign.