Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement with Manchester City to secure the services of forward Julian Alvarez for £81.5 million. The transfer fee includes an initial £64.4 million along with potential add-ons amounting to £17.1 million.
This transfer deal sets a new record for Manchester City, surpassing the £50 million paid by Chelsea for Raheem Sterling in 2022.
Julian Alvarez, who decided to finalize his move after Argentina’s participation in the 2024 Olympics football tournament, was part of the team that was knocked out by hosts France last Friday.
Despite manager Pep Guardiola’s desire to retain the 24-year-old forward, Alvarez is open to deciding his future at the club. In line with previous situations involving players like Ilkay Gundogan, Riyad Mahrez, and Aymeric Laporte, Manchester City have chosen not to obstruct the departure of any player wishing to leave.
Atletico Madrid, who have also secured a deal to acquire Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, are currently negotiating personal terms with Julian Alvarez.
Alvarez initially joined Manchester City in 2022 for a fee of £14.1 million from River Plate. He has scored 36 goals in 106 appearances for the club. Additionally, he played a crucial role in City’s successful campaign, including achieving the treble in his first season at the Etihad and prominently featuring during Argentina’s triumph in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
