Barcelona have decided against pursuing Argentina forward Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid during the January transfer window, leaving the 24-year-old to weigh interest from Paris St-Germain and Arsenal or remain with his current club. Atletico Madrid have publicly reiterated their stance twice within 24 hours that Alvarez will not be sold to Barcelona, according to reports on the player's reintegration into squad plans.
The Argentina international's contract at Atletico runs until June 2030 and includes a €500 million release clause, according to reporting on his contractual terms. Manager Diego Simeone has described the failed summer exit as a "learning experience" and confirmed Alvarez will return for the Athletic Club match in La Liga.
Barcelona's decision to step back from the pursuit follows a collapsed summer move, which left Arsenal as the only realistic alternative for the player. Reports indicate that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta contacted Alvarez directly, and the club was prepared to meet Atletico's financial demands, though no deal ultimately materialised.
Will Liverpool sell Wirtz to Bayern Munich?
Liverpool will not permit the departure of Germany midfielder Florian Wirtz, 23, to Bayern Munich in the January transfer window. The Merseyside club are expected to face renewed Bayern-linked speculation ahead of the January transfer window, when any approach for Wirtz would likely be rejected, according to sources tracking the midfielder's situation. Bayern Munich would only consider making a move next summer if France winger Michael Olise, 24, declines a new contract offer.
What are Chelsea's midfield priorities?
Chelsea have identified Bournemouth's Alex Scott, 23, and Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton, 22, as their primary midfield targets for the January window. The West London club have moved away from their earlier interest in Monaco and Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara, 22, shifting their focus to the English duo.
Other transfer developments
Aston Villa are working to secure Argentina midfielder Emi Buendia, 29, to a new contract in recognition of his recent performances. England left-back Luke Shaw, 31, could depart Manchester United when his current deal expires in summer 2027, with the club considering only a short-term extension rather than a longer commitment. Manchester United could decide on Shaw's future before his contract expires, with the next discussion framed around a short-term arrangement.
Udinese are preparing to sign Austria defender David Alaba, 34, following his departure from Real Madrid in the summer.
