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Simeone Says Atlético Will Block Álvarez €150M Exit Bid

8/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Coach Diego Simeone announced that Atlético Madrid will not let Julián Álvarez leave despite a €150 million Real Madrid bid and Barcelona interest.
Simeone confirmed Álvarez is not fit for the LaLiga opener against Málaga on Wednesday, August 19 (Korean time).
He added that Álvarez will need training before the next match versus Villarreal.

History

Historical Context

In 2009 Cristiano Ronaldo left Manchester United for Real Madrid for a world-record £80 million fee, igniting a series of record-breaking transfers. That model now sees clubs like United and Atlético Madrid refuse lucrative offers, as Atlético turned down a €150 million Real Madrid bid for Julián Álvarez. The clash fuels debate over competitive ambition versus financial sustainability and pushes UEFA toward tighter transfer regulation.

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Story summary

Coach Diego Simeone announced that Atlético Madrid will not let Julián Álvarez leave despite a €150 million Real Madrid bid and Barcelona interest.
Simeone confirmed Álvarez is not fit for the LaLiga opener against Málaga on Wednesday, August 19 (Korean time).
He added that Álvarez will need training before the next match versus Villarreal.

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