Simeone confident Julián Álvarez will stay at Atlético amid Barcelona interest

Diego Simeone expressed confidence that Julián Álvarez will not join Barcelona, despite ongoing interest from the Catalan club. Atlético Madrid is preparing for Álvarez's return to the squad as he begins preseason training following a post-World Cup break. Barcelona had an initial €100 million bid for the forward rejected, but plan to make another offer. Álvarez is expected to request a transfer in discussions with Simeone and Atlético executives. The club’s management has communicated a clear decision regarding his future, indicating their desire to retain him, while Barcelona has identified alternatives in case their approach is unsuccessful.

• 7:00 AMYahoo Sports — “The situation is very clear” – Diego Simeone confident in keeping Julián Álvarez amid Barcelona rumors