Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez responds to Barcelona transfer speculation

Nick McGee

Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez responds to Barcelona transfer speculation image

Julian Alvarez dismissed speculation about a move to Barcelona as "irrelevant" amid his red-hot start to the season for Atletico Madrid.

The former Manchester City striker has been in outstanding form, scoring seven goals in eight games, including two in the 5-2 derby win over Real Madrid last Saturday.

Alvarez's prolific form, which has seen him find the net six times in his last three games, has prompted talk of interest from a host European clubs, including Barcelona.

Barcelona's main central striker, Robert Lewandowski, is out of the contract at the end of the season, though the deal includes an option for a further year.

The Blaugrana are, therefore, likely to at some point be in the market for a long-term solution up front, though Alvarez is paying little mind to talk of him being the answer.

Alvarez calm over Barca talk

Asked about the speculation following his goal in the 5-1 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt, Alvarez said: "Look, I'm very calm about it all.

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"People always talk. Last year, there was a lot of talk as well, but the season is just starting and my focus is on getting better every day, doing my best for the club, helping my team-mates and winning here.

"That's all I'm thinking about. What people say on social media is irrelevant."

Alvarez joined Atletico from City in a deal reportedly worth €95million (£81.8m) in August last year. He has scored 36 goals in all competitions for the club. 

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Nick McGee

Nick McGee is a writer and sub-editor for The Sporting News. Nick has worked in sports media for more than a decade covering everything from football to F1 and beyond. He specialises particularly in US Sports as a passionate San Francisco 49ers fan, and has covered several Super Bowls.