Atletico Madrid has set a deadline for Julian Alvarez to report for pre-season training on August 10, as Barcelona intensifies its pursuit of the forward. According to Marca, the Catalan club aims to finalize a deal within the next week but may pivot to other options if negotiations stall.

Alvarez recently participated in the World Cup 2026 final, where Argentina fell to Spain 1-0. Following the tournament, he is expected to take a brief break before returning to Atletico Madrid's facilities to prepare for the upcoming season.

The situation is complicated by Alvarez's expressed desire to leave Atletico, a sentiment that has fueled speculation throughout the tournament. Despite this, Atletico Madrid remains firm in their stance that the player is not for sale. They have reiterated their expectation for him to return for pre-season preparations on August 10.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has countered Atletico's position, warning that keeping a player who wishes to leave can lead to complications. Current reports indicate that Alvarez is under contract with Atletico until June 2030, with a release clause that complicates any potential transfer.

As negotiations continue, Barcelona is prepared to explore alternative targets if an agreement cannot be reached by the deadline. The coming week will be crucial in determining Alvarez's future as the transfer saga unfolds.