Barcelona remains determined to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, despite facing significant resistance from the latter. The current bid of just over £100m stands firm, but sources suggest Barcelona might increase their offer to over £110m (€130m) plus bonuses after the World Cup.

President Joan Laporta has indicated that while the club is considering a new offer, the relationship with Atletico is strained, with both sides engaged in a public spat on social media. Atletico Madrid has firmly rejected a previous £130m (€150m) bid from Real Madrid, reinforcing their unwillingness to sell Alvarez at this time.

Key points include:

• Laporta believes Atletico's refusal stems from the absence of a suitable replacement for Alvarez.
• Atletico's CEO, Miguel Gil Marin, has accused Barcelona of disrespecting their club.
• Laporta confirmed, "The offer is firm and we stand by it," highlighting that it could still go through if Atletico secures a replacement.

After the World Cup, Alvarez plans to go on holiday before returning for pre-season training, where discussions regarding his future are expected. Sky Sports News reports that it is Alvarez's dream to play for Barcelona, and his family prefers to remain in Spain, complicating interests from Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.

Despite Atletico's reluctance, they may consider selling to Arsenal or PSG if Alvarez expresses a desire to leave. However, as it stands, both Alvarez and his family are hesitant to relocate abroad, making it likely he will stay at Atletico unless circumstances change.