Diego Simeone Fires Back at Julian Alvarez Question Amid Growing Arsenal Transfer Links

Diego Simeone angrily defends Julian Alvarez after Arsenal transfer link resurface amid concerns over the Atletico Madrid striker’s form.

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone delivered a fiery response when questioned about Julian Alvarez, as speculation continues to link the striker with Arsenal. The tense exchange came during a pre-match press conference ahead of Atletico’s La Liga clash with Mallorca.

When asked whether supporters should still “believe” in Alvarez, Simeone reacted sharply.

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“Seriously? Are you seriously asking me that?” Simeone said. “Julian Alvarez speaks for himself — because of the name he has, the authority he carries, and the career he’s built.”

The response underlined Simeone’s public backing of the Argentine despite growing scrutiny over his recent goal drought.

Alvarez’s Atletico Record Under the Spotlight

Alvarez joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in a deal worth around £81.8 million in 2024. His debut season delivered 17 goals and four assists, reinforcing his status as a marquee signing.

Across all competitions, Alvarez has scored 40 goals in 85 appearances. However, his current campaign has raised concerns. He has netted just seven goals in 20 La Liga matches and is currently enduring a nine-game league goal drought, which has fuelled transfer speculation.

Arsenal’s interest in Alvarez has intensified in recent weeks. Reports suggest the Gunners made an informal enquiry ahead of the summer transfer window, with sporting director Andrea Berta maintaining a strong relationship from Alvarez’s previous move to Atletico.

Arsenal’s search for attacking reinforcements has grown louder following Viktor Gyokeres’ slow Premier League adaptation, with the Swede scoring only five league goals so far.

Barcelona are also tracking Alvarez as a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, whose contract situation remains unresolved. Atletico are believed to value Alvarez at over €100 million, although some reports suggest bids around £86 million could test their resolve. His contract runs until 2030, with a release clause set at an eye-watering £433 million.

Despite the noise, Alvarez and his representatives have moved quickly to downplay exit rumours. His agent, Fernando Hidalgo, dismissed claims of talks with Barcelona and insisted that any interested club must deal directly with Atletico Madrid.

Alvarez himself described the reports as “speculation” and reiterated his focus on Atletico’s title challenge against Real Madrid and Barcelona.

What Simeone’s Reaction Says About Atletico’s Stance

Simeone’s angry response reflects Atletico Madrid’s firm stance amid mounting pressure. With Alvarez fully fit and central to their attacking plans, the club remains determined to retain key players during a tightly contested La Liga season.

While the January window is closing, interest is expected to resurface in the summer. For now, Atletico are banking on Alvarez rediscovering his scoring touch and silencing transfer chatter on the pitch.

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