Barcelona's sporting director set to discuss Julian Alvarez in Madrid

Barcelona's sporting director, Deco, is scheduled to meet with Julian Alvarez's agent in Madrid this week. The meeting comes as the Atletico Madrid striker is set to return to training on August 10 and has expressed a desire to leave the club. Despite Barcelona's interest, Atletico Madrid remains firm on Alvarez's €500 million release clause. Barcelona has yet to make a substantial offer, currently around €100 million, which may need to be improved for negotiations to progress. This week is critical for Barcelona, with the potential not only to secure Alvarez's signing but also to avoid losing Ferran Torres, who is expected to announce his decision soon.

• 6:00 AMYahoo Sports — Barcelona sporting director set to meet agent of top attacking target in Madrid – Romano