Atletico Will Build Team Around Alvarez, Simeone Insists Amid Transfer Interest

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has reiterated that Julian Alvarez will remain at the club this season, insisting the Argentina striker is central to his plans.

Alvarez, 26, has attracted interest from several European heavyweights, including Arsenal and Real Madrid, while Atletico have also complained to FIFA over an alleged approach from Barcelona.

Real Madrid reportedly had a €150 million bid for the forward rejected in June, while speculation has continued over his future ahead of the new LaLiga campaign.

However, Simeone remains adamant that Alvarez is not leaving Atletico.

“He’s an extraordinary guy. We had a good chat the other day, as we always do,” Simeone said ahead of Atletico’s LaLiga opener against Malaga on Wednesday.

“He’s our best attacking player. I said it last year, and I still think so. We need to try to build a team around him.”

Atletico chief executive Miguel Angel Marin has also repeatedly insisted that Alvarez is not for sale.

“When the club’s owner speaks so clearly, there is nothing more to add. It’s like in court proceedings – the case is dismissed,” Simeone added.

Alvarez has scored 49 goals for Atletico since joining from Manchester City two years ago.

The forward previously suggested while on international duty with Argentina that he believed a transfer could be beneficial, although he did not reveal his preferred destination.

Atletico finished fourth in LaLiga last season, 25 points behind champions Barcelona.