Real Madrid Expect to Beat Barcelona to Julian Alvarez: Report

Determined to join FC Barcelona, Julian Alvarez is facing strong tensions between Atletico Madrid's leadership and the Catalan club. Under these circumstances, Real Madrid believes it is in the best position to sign the Atletico Madrid striker.

Julian Alvarez has made his intentions known. After Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday, the striker revealed his desire to move elsewhere. The Atletico Madrid player confirmed his wish to fulfill his dream.

Barcelona was not mentioned in his statement. But because of the persistent rumors, everyone understood his intentions. The Argentine nevertheless appears far from Catalonia, especially after the sharp response from his superior, Miguel Angel Gil Marin.

"Barcelona is lying," the Atletico Madrid CEO told news agency EFE. "They are trying to convince everyone that they are capable of completing a deal that they are actually not in a position to execute. It is not the first time Barcelona has acted this way. The football world knows that very well."

It is clear that Atletico Madrid has no desire to strengthen the Blaugrana. If the club decides to let its striker leave, the Colchoneros could send him elsewhere. And why not Real Madrid? That is at least the possibility raised once again by journalist Josep Pedrerol.

"I spoke today with Real Madrid, and the response to my question surprised me," the host of El Chiringuito said. "I asked whether Real Madrid could begin negotiations after Julian Alvarez's statement. And I was told: 'Atletico Madrid will sell him to us.' That is what I was told. But it is probably more wish than reality. It may be a comment that does not really matter. But at Real Madrid, they are convinced that Atletico will sell Julian Alvarez to them."

It is worth remembering that Los Blancos have already submitted a 150-million-euro offer for the Argentina international. That proposal was rejected.