Atlético Madrid has begun preparing for the possible departure of Julián Álvarez. If a team offers around €150 million this summer, Atlético will consider letting him go and plans to use the funds to sign Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martínez.
As FC Barcelona continues to monitor the "Spider" (Alvarez’s nickname), Diego Simeone and new Director of Football Mateu Alemany are advancing plans for reinforcement—their top target is Inter Milan captain and Argentine striker Lautaro Martínez.
Simeone has long admired Lautaro, believing the forward possesses the ideal tenacity, pressing intensity, and team spirit of sacrifice, which perfectly fits Atlético’s fighting style. Alemany has started evaluating the feasibility of the deal, but Inter Milan will not let Lautaro go easily. Lautaro’s contract with the Nerazzurri runs until 2028, and his current market value is approximately €100 million.
Notably, back in 2018, Lautaro almost joined Atlético, but Inter Milan ultimately signed him first. Seven years later, this unfinished story may have a chance to continue.
Barcelona regards Alvarez as the ideal successor to Robert Lewandowski. If the club can secure funds through asset sales and new commercial agreements, it may make an official move in the 2026 summer transfer window. Alvarez’s release clause is as high as €500 million, but Atlético may consider letting him go if it receives an offer exceeding €150 million.
