Diego Simeone finally opens up about Barcelona priority target Julian Alvarez’s future: ‘Things will sort themselves out’

Diego Simeone finally opens up about Barcelona priority target Julian Alvarez’s future: ‘Things will sort themselves out’ Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has delivered his clearest verdict yet on Julian Alvarez’s future amid strong interest from Barcelona. The Julian Alvarez Barcelona transfer saga has gathered pace in recent weeks after the Argentine forward informed Atletico Madrid of his desire to leave this summer in order to fulfil his ambition of playing for Barcelona. Club president Joan Laporta has already confirmed that Barcelona opened talks with Atletico Madrid , although the Madrid side remain reluctant to strengthen one of their biggest domestic rivals. Speaking to ESPN , Simeone made it clear how highly he rates the Argentine international, describing him as one of the best players in world football. Simeone’s message over Julian Alvarez Barcelona links With Julian Alvarez transfer rumours continuing to circulate, Simeone explained just how important the forward remains to Atletico Madrid’s plans. The Argentine coach believes Alvarez is among the top players in the game and revealed that the club intends to build the team around him should he remain in the Spanish capital. Simeone has opened up about Alvarez’s future. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) “He is the best footballer we have at Atlético de Madrid, without a doubt he is among the top 5 in the world.  “If he stays, we have planned to generate the game around him.” The Atletico Madrid manager also offered an update on Alvarez’s physical condition after recently meeting the player. “Well, I actually ran into him today on my way to visit Julian for a bit, and we chatted a little—mostly about how he’s doing right now, how his ankle was holding up, and how important he is to the team. “He told me he was feeling great, that he was already at 100 percent. “He’s an extraordinary player, the best footballer we have at Atlético de Madrid – his stats speak for themselves too.  “He’s had a very good run of form and has brought something special to the team as a player, and well, we’re very pleased with his work,” added the Atletico Madrid manager. Barcelona continue monitoring Alvarez LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 05: Julian Alvarez of Atletico de Madrid warms up prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Semi Final Second Leg match between Arsenal FC and Atletico de Madrid at Arsenal Stadium on May 05, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) Despite Atletico Madrid’s determination to retain him , Barcelona remain attentive to developments surrounding Julian Alvarez’s future. The striker is viewed as a player capable of elevating Hansi Flick’s attack, and his reported desire to wear the Blaugrana shirt has only increased speculation over a potential move. However, Simeone avoided offering any definitive answers regarding the striker’s long-term plans. Addressing the situation, he said, “I can’t say anything more than what I’m telling you about him because he’s conducted himself well as a person. “His future, above all, lies in tomorrow’s match, and the best thing for him is to focus on that – not to dwell on all these issues that have obviously come to light – so that they don’t cause him any confusion, and things will sort themselves out as they always have in life,” he noted.