English Premier League
Atletico de Madrid interest in Ferran Torres could unlock Barcelona’s Julian Alvarez pursuit
Atletico de Madrid have emerged as a potential destination for Ferran Torres, a development that could give Barcelona a new way to revive their complicated efforts to sign Julian Alvarez.
Torres’ future at Barcelona remains unresolved as the Spain forward continues a media tour in the United States, where attention around him increased after he scored the decisive goal in the World Cup final against Argentina.
The 25-year-old has repeatedly said he has not yet decided where he will play next season, leaving his position open despite growing speculation over a possible move. Paris Saint-Germain have been linked with the forward, but Atletico’s reported interest could now add a new dimension to the situation.
Barcelona are waiting for Torres to return to Spain and join training next week. The club expects him to hold talks with sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick about his future. Alternatively, the Catalan club could receive the formal offer from Paris Saint-Germain that has been anticipated for some time.
Despite the volume of reports linking Torres with the French champions, Paris Saint-Germain have not submitted an official bid to Barcelona. Atletico’s name has instead begun to feature in discussions about the forward’s future.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, Atletico’s possible involvement may not be based solely on an independent desire to sign Torres. Their interest could become directly connected to negotiations with Barcelona over Julian Alvarez.
Barcelona have long wanted to sign the Argentina striker. However, Atletico have consistently resisted the idea of allowing their leading scorer to leave, making any potential agreement particularly difficult.
Torres could therefore become an important bargaining chip if the two clubs reopen talks over Alvarez. His availability may provide both sides with an additional option as they attempt to find a solution to the impasse.
Barcelona’s official position on Torres has not changed. The club do not want to sell him and are planning to offer him a new contract.
The current intention is to delay renewal discussions until September, once the transfer window has closed and the club’s position regarding its salary limit and overall wage bill has become clearer. Barcelona insist this timetable was established in advance and is not linked to the estimated €8m financial obligation to Manchester City resulting from Torres’ contract renewal.
The club’s sporting management also does not plan to offer Torres a substantial pay rise. Barcelona believe the forward is already on a salary that reflects his status within the squad, although they are prepared to improve his terms without making a significant increase.
That stance means any approach from Paris Saint-Germain, or a possible move by Atletico, would still need to overcome Barcelona’s preference to retain the player. But Atletico’s apparent interest could prove significant if it coincides with renewed discussions about Alvarez.
For now, Barcelona are waiting for clarity on two fronts: Torres’ intentions after his return to pre-season training and whether Paris Saint-Germain finally makes a formal approach. Atletico’s entry into the picture could offer the most unexpected route towards progress in the club’s pursuit of Alvarez.
