Julian Alvarez’s move from Manchester City to Atletico Madrid “will happen”, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The collapse of Samu Omoridion’s transfer from Atletico to Chelsea had raised doubts over whether the Spanish club could still afford to pay €95m (£81m) for Alvarez, but Romano said:
🔴⚪️🩺 Julián Álvarez, set for Atlético Madrid medical as he’s just arrived with his agent Hidalgo.
The deal WILL happen, with Chelsea and Atlético now looking for solutions. pic.twitter.com/rkRmLy61Ie
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 12, 2024
As Romano mentions, Alvarez has arrived in Madrid for his medical, with his move set to be made official over the next few days.
A player offered to City could join Chelsea instead
It was reported a couple of weeks ago (when negotiations began for Alvarez) that the Cityzens were offered Joao Felix on loan.
Although the Premier League champions have held an interest in the 24-year-old previously, they turned down the chance to take him. Yet, Felix could still be plying his trade in England this season.
Chelsea are now in talks to sign the Portuguese international on a permanent deal, with Atletico asking for a fee of around €50m (£43m).
Guardiola wants to sign a backup for Haaland
When Alvarez’s move to Atletico is officially confirmed, it appears City will go into the market to sign a replacement before the transfer deadline on August 3oth. Speaking about purchasing another forward, manager Pep Guardiola did suggest that it was under serious consideration:
“We will see until the end of the market if we really need a striker just in case [we need a] backup for Erling. Erling is not going to play all the schedule we have ahead of us. With all the games he won’t be able to play all of them. We have to think about it if we have another solution.
Find out who is in Manchester City’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here
