Julian Alvarez, who recently represented Argentina in the 2024 Paris Olympics, is poised to leave Manchester City for Atletico Madrid. Reports on Tuesday revealed that the deal could be worth up to 95 million euros (£81 million, $104 million), representing a substantial profit for the English champions. Alvarez, 24, was originally signed by City from River Plate for just £14 million in January 2022. Since then, he has enjoyed a remarkable rise, contributing to Argentina’s World Cup and Copa America victories, as well as winning two Premier League titles and the Champions League with City.
Following an initial loan return to River Plate for six months, Alvarez netted 36 goals in two seasons with City, aiding Pep Guardiola’s team in becoming the first to win four consecutive English top-flight titles. Despite his achievements, he frequently played second fiddle to Erling Haaland.
City will benefit from a club record sale but may need to enter the transfer market in the final weeks of the window to secure a backup for Haaland.
With Spain captain Alvaro Morata moving to AC Milan, Alvarez is set to become a key player in Madrid under fellow Argentine Diego Simeone. Atletico is aiming to challenge Real Madrid and Barcelona at the top of La Liga after finishing fourth last season. They have already signed Euro 2024 winner Robin Le Normand and Norwegian forward Alexander Sorloth. Additionally, Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher is close to finalizing a £33 million move to Atletico, having flown to Madrid to complete the deal.
