Julian Alvarez has publicly asked Atletico Madrid to sell him this summer in a bombshell interview at the World Cup.
Alvarez has been the subject of intense transfer interest already this summer after his sensational season with Atleti, with Arsenal said to be among his suitors.
And now he has pleaded with his employers to allow him to move on to a new challenge.
Alvarez spoke with ESPN Argentina in a post-match interview following Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria in their second World Cup group game, speaking on his club-level future for the first time.
“The best thing for everyone is a transfer,” he admitted. “And I want to fulfil my dream.”
“I don't think it's the right time to talk about this, but I can't hide either,” he added.
“I have to be honest, and I spoke with the people at the club, the ones I needed to speak with.”
Alvarez’s words will come as positive news to the leading European clubs who are pursuing a deal to sign him.
Barcelona are the frontrunners, with Real Madrid and double Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain also keen.
Atleti are loathe to sell Alvarez but the strength of feeling expressed by the 26-year-old Argentine could move the needle.
The Athletic has reported Barcelona are expected to make another attempt to sign the player in the coming days.
Atletico has responded to speculation regarding his future in a new statement, too, insisting they will not sell to Barcelona unless they fulfil Alvarez’s eye-watering €500m (£431m) release clause.
The club told Diario AS in a statement: “There is no amount of money for which Barcelona can buy Julian Alvarez. He will not be transferred to Barcelona. Either they pay the release clause for €500m (£431m) or there is no deal.”
Argentina’s win over Austria in Dallas on Monday came courtesy of fourth and fifth goals at this World Cup for 38-year-old Lionel Messi, who moved two ahead of previous record-holder Miroslav Klose of Germany to become the outright top scorer in the history of the World Cup on 18 goals.
