Man City considering sensational Julian Alvarez return as Atletico refuse to sell to Barcelona

Man City considering sensational Julian Alvarez return as Atletico refuse to sell to Barcelona Manchester City are considering a sensational move to bring Julian Alvarez back to the Etihad Stadium, according to Marca . There is so much uncertainty over the striker’s future at Atletico Madrid as he wants to join Barcelona, but they have refused to let him join their La Liga rivals . Alvarez left City for Atletico two summers ago after struggling to establish himself as an undisputed starter during two seasons playing in the shadow of Erling Haaland. The Argentina international was keen to find a club where he could play a more prominent role and has since become one of Atletico’s most important players. However, his future in Madrid is now increasingly unclear, with a return to the Premier League emerging as Barcelona appears to be an unrealistic option. Arsenal had been viewed as the most likely destination should Alvarez decide to leave Atletico. City have now surprisingly entered the picture. Man City know him well and he knows the league too. He bagged 36 goals and 19 assists in 103 appearances for the FA Cup champions. City could use attacking reinforcemet after selling Omar Marmoush and Savinho. Alvarez’s name has consequently been discussed internally as a potential solution, although they prefer a loan move. Alvarez has reservations about returning to England after leaving City specifically to secure more playing time elsewhere. Atletico also have little interest in allowing their star forward to depart on loan. The Spanish giants are reportedly demanding at least €150 million (£129m) for Alvarez or would want a high-quality replacement included in any agreement. Interestingly, Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres is among the profiles that they are considering to replace Alvarez. For now, City’s interest has not developed into formal negotiations. Alvarez has also returned to Atletico training on Friday after missing three consecutive sessions, working individually with a fitness coach as part of a tailored programme. The Premier League could now be Alvarez’s only realistic escape route after the Spanish club’s CEO vowed not to sell to the La Liga champions.