Negotiations between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid regarding the transfer of Argentine striker Julián Álvarez have taken a new turn, with the Catalan club maintaining its stance of refusing to include one of its most promising young talents in the deal, despite pressure from the Madrid side.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Atlético Madrid, at the request of head coach Diego Simeone, has expressed a strong desire to sign young midfielder Marc Bernal as part of any potential agreement for Álvarez’s move to Barcelona.
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However, Barcelona’s management has firmly rejected this proposal, emphasizing that Bernal is not available for sale or negotiation, as he is considered a cornerstone of the club’s long-term sporting project under German coach Hansi Flick.
Reports indicate that Barcelona has submitted a €100 million offer for Julián Álvarez and is prepared to include some players who are not part of Hansi Flick’s primary plans, but has completely ruled out the possibility of letting Bernal leave.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta previously confirmed that negotiations with Atlético Madrid are ongoing, highlighting the strong relationship between the two clubs, which has helped facilitate discussions in recent days.
Marc Bernal enjoys considerable confidence at Barcelona, having recently extended his contract until the summer of 2029, with a hefty €500 million release clause—a clear indication of the club’s long-term commitment to the player.
Flick also considers the 19-year-old midfielder one of the team’s brightest young talents, especially after his impressive return from a cruciate ligament injury. He made 33 official appearances last season, delivering outstanding performances that solidified his place in the starting lineup.
Despite the ongoing negotiations between Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, the Catalan club’s position remains clear: it is open to discussing every aspect of the Julián Álvarez deal but categorically refuses to include Marc Bernal in any potential agreement.
