Barcelona director Deco denies Julian Alvarez talks amid Arsenal links
Barcelona sporting director Deco has denied holding talks with Julian Alvarez regarding a summer transfer, dismissing reports linking the Atletico Madrid forward with a move to the Camp Nou or Arsenal.
The former Portugal midfielder insisted it is too early in the season to discuss potential recruitment.
Alvarez, who joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in the summer of 2024, has recently been the subject of speculation regarding a swift exit.
Reports had suggested Barcelona were plotting a move for the World Cup winner, alongside interest from Premier League title challengers Arsenal.
However, the Catalan club’s transfer chief has moved to quell rumours of an imminent approach.
“We have not spoken to any club or player,” Deco said when asked about the Argentine forward.
“This is not the time to do it, no matter how much we like them. We’ll talk when it’s time.”
“It’s February. There are many players that we like. We’ll see. We have two strikers. This is not the time to make decisions.”
Atletico stance and valuation
Any potential suitor for the 26-year-old would likely face a significant financial obstacle.
The Argentina international is under contract with the Rojiblancos until the summer of 2030.
It has been suggested that the Madrid club would demand a fee in the region of £167m to part ways with their marquee signing.
Parlour urges Arsenal to act
While Barcelona have distanced themselves from a move, former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour believes his old club should target the versatile attacker.
Parlour views the former Manchester City forward as an ideal upgrade on Gabriel Jesus.
“I think Jesus might leave at the end of the season, he is at that age where he wants to be playing week in, week out,” Parlour told Metro.
“For me, Alvarez would be a great addition to the squad.”
Parlour highlighted the forward’s pedigree under Pep Guardiola as a key asset for Mikel Arteta’s side.
“There will always be people coming and going in the summer because it’s a big squad and they can’t keep everyone happy,” he added.
“But Alvarez would be a fantastic option to have with his pace and what we saw at Man City.”
“He’s a young man too, so if he’s available it’s a yes for me.”