Barcelona fined 602 euros by Spanish Football Federation over Julian Alvarez approach

Barcelona have been fined 602 euros by the Spanish Football Federation after Atletico Madrid complained that the Catalan club contacted Julian Alvarez without following the required transfer procedures.

The penalty, described as “trivial” by Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, follows an investigation into Atletico’s claim that Barcelona attempted to approach one of their leading players while he remained under contract.

The case was opened as an exceptional disciplinary investigation in late July, after Atletico submitted a formal complaint. The Spanish Football Federation ruled under Article 133 of its disciplinary regulations, which covers breaches of instructions, decisions and organisational obligations.

For minor offences, the article allows for a fine of up to 602 euros. Other possible sanctions included a suspension, a temporary ban from football-related activity or the closure of a stadium for one match.

FIFA did not take charge of the dispute because it involved two clubs affiliated to the same national association.

Why Atletico complained

Barcelona’s interest in Alvarez was linked to the Argentina striker’s contract with Atletico, which runs until June 2030 and reportedly contains a 500m-euro release clause.

Atletico accused Barcelona of contacting the player and trying to persuade him to join despite his existing agreement. The Madrid club argued that the communications took place during the contractual protection period, when negotiations with a player are restricted unless the relevant regulations are followed.

The club also cited the Spanish competition regulations, which require a team seeking to sign a professional player under contract to notify his current club in writing before opening negotiations with the player.

Atletico had already objected in May to what it called a campaign aimed at Alvarez, referring to leaks, statements and contacts it considered damaging to the club. On 30 June, it formally complained to both the Spanish Football Federation and FIFA.

Barcelona’s interest in Alvarez had been public. Club president Joan Laporta spoke about manager Hansi Flick’s desire to sign the forward, while Atletico repeatedly insisted they did not want to sell him, even if they received significant offers.

Griezmann case recalled

The dispute is similar to an earlier disagreement between the clubs over Antoine Griezmann in the summer of 2019.

Atletico complained about Barcelona’s negotiations with the France striker, who eventually moved to the Catalan club. Barcelona were fined only 300 euros, despite an investigation finding breaches linked to the talks being started without Atletico being notified beforehand.

The Spanish Football Federation also rejected a proposal to close Camp Nou for one match.

The two cases underline the limited financial consequences of disputes that have involved significant disagreements between the clubs. On both occasions, Atletico referred Barcelona’s conduct towards a player under contract to the relevant authorities, but the proceedings resulted in only a small fine.

Atletico Madrid

La Liga

08 November 2026

Barcelona