Julian Alvarez's agent has got people talking with post during Arsenal vs Coventry
Fernando Hidalgo, the agent of Julian Alvarez, has posted a telling statement on social media as speculation continues to swirl around the future of Atletico Madrid's wantaway striker.
Alvarez has publicly expressed his desire to leave Atletico this summer.
While on World Cup duty with Argentina in June, the 26-year-old confirmed his intentions. "I spoke with the people at [Atletico] I needed to speak with, and the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream."
He added: "It's not the time to talk about this, but I also can't hide it. I try to be an honest person."
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Despite his ambition to leave, Atletico appear reluctant to let him join Barcelona, a club that have been consistently linked with a move in recent months. Arsenal, on the other hand, are in the driving seat.
On Thursday, a report from Mundo Deportivo claimed those behind the scenes at Atletico have agreed to enter into transfer talks with the defending Premier League champions, who would be willing to pay in excess of £100 million.
However, Alvarez's preference is to sign for Barcelona.
As the transfer saga continues to rumble on, Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin insisted on Friday that they want him to stay put.
Speaking to EFE, Marin said: "Atletico Madrid, like all great clubs, is built with great players, and I’m certain that Julian is one, as well as a great professional. We must compete based on our values, with homegrown talent and the best players from outside that we can bring in.
"We are going to help Julian and continue to take care of him so that he can give us his full potential, because we need him to continue competing among the greats of Europe. We must understand that Julian has not had the best advisors around him regarding his professional career in recent months.
Marin continued: "We cannot allow other clubs and their affiliated media to dictate what we have to do, dictate our sporting strategy, and disrespect us.
"That’s precisely what they’re trying to do – divide us. It’s clear we’re not as powerful as they are but we have values. We Atletico fans won’t let them corrupt us. Atleti is strong when we’re all together."
Julian Alvarez's agent uploads telling post on Instagram story amid rumours
On Friday evening, during Arsenal's Premier League opener against Coventry, Alvarez's agent Fernando Hidalgo appeared to respond to Marin's comments by posting a picture that read: “Never ask a liar why he lied. To explain it. He’d have to lie again.”
Alvarez appears to be holding out for Barcelona, but a move could prove difficult before the window closes.
Barca are said to have ended their pursuit of Alvarez this summer, according to a report from ESPN, which suggests they are exploring other striker options.
Topics: Julian Alvarez, Arsenal, Transfer News, Atletico Madrid
Jack Kenmare