Julian Alvarez has not attended Atletico Madrid training since learning privately that the club will not sell him to Barcelona. This development suggests that his only potential exit from Atletico is a transfer to Arsenal.

Sources informed BBC Sport that Atletico conveyed to Alvarez and his advisors earlier this week that they would not negotiate with the Catalan club regarding the Argentina international's transfer.

The 26-year-old striker has missed two consecutive training sessions, citing illness. In light of Alvarez's aspirations, Atletico released two public statements within 24 hours, reiterating their firm stance against allowing him to join Barcelona in the near future.

Despite this, Atletico is open to selling Alvarez to Arsenal, having engaged in direct talks with the Premier League champions. Last week, Atletico director Mateu Alemany was in London, where he reportedly met with Arsenal representatives, indicating that they would seek a fee of 150 million Euros (£128 million).

Mikel Arteta is eager to secure Alvarez's services this month, but the player's strong desire to join Barcelona has stalled Arsenal's efforts. Nonetheless, discussions between Atletico and Arsenal regarding a club-to-club agreement have been reportedly positive.

If Alvarez gives Arsenal the green light to proceed with negotiations in the coming days, a deal could materialize swiftly. On Wednesday, responding to comments from Barcelona president Joan Laporte, Atletico firmly stated:

There is 0% chance of selling him to Barca.

The Atletico board reiterated their decision on Thursday, expressing unanimous support for not negotiating Alvarez's transfer to FC Barcelona.