Atlético Madrid Accuses Barcelona of Smear Campaign Over Álvarez Pursuit
Atlético Madrid posted on social media accusing Barcelona of a smear campaign in its pursuit of forward Julián Álvarez. The posts followed reports that Barcelona had submitted a bid for the player.
ESPNAtlético Madrid accused Barcelona of a "relentless smear campaign" in its pursuit of forward Julián Álvarez, citing "calculated leaks, fake news and constant disrespect" in a series of social media posts. The club referenced an inquiry into €7 million of payments made by Barcelona to former referees' committee vice president José María Enríquez Negreira between 2001 and 2018.
Atlético also posted joke transfer offers for Barcelona players Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Raphinha.
Background on the reported interest ESPN reported Thursday that Barcelona had met with Álvarez's representatives and were told the player favored a move there over Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal. Club sources told ESPN they had not received any offer from Barcelona.
Álvarez has a contract with Atlético until 2030 that includes a €500 million release clause. He scored 10 goals in Atlético's Champions League run and eight in LaLiga this season. The clubs previously clashed over the 2019 transfer of Antoine Griezmann from Atlético to Barcelona.
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