Lautaro Martínez offers support to Julian Alvarez after failed Barcelona transfer

Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martínez confirmed he reached out to Argentina teammate Julian Alvarez to provide personal support following the forward's collapsed move to Barcelona. Despite interest from the Catalan club during the recent transfer window, Atletico Madrid opted to retain the 26-year-old. Lautaro Martínez addressed the situation while in Spain preparing for Inter Milan’s upcoming Champions League fixture against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Inter forward acknowledged that while the two compete for the same position on the national team, they maintain a friendship. He stated that the outcome was ultimately determined by the club and its president rather than the player. Lautaro Martínez expressed hope that his teammate can move forward and continue performing at the high level he has established internationally.

• 1:45 PMESPN Soccer — Martínez: Álvarez transfer situation 'isn't easy'
• 7:05 AMYahoo Sports — Inter Milan superstar Lautaro Martínez reveals contact with Julian Alvarez after Barcelona drama: ‘Hope he gets well soon’