Manchester United striker Julian Alvarez's future is reportedly down to just two potential clubs, with his desired move to Barcelona facing significant financial hurdles.
Alvarez, who has been a key player for Atletico Madrid, initially pushed for a summer exit, with Real Madrid initially considered a possibility before they shifted their focus. Barcelona have also been heavily linked, with Alvarez reportedly keen on a move to the Nou Camp.
However, Atletico Madrid are reportedly demanding an astronomical fee for the striker, a price tag Barcelona are currently unwilling or unable to meet. Barcelona president Joan Laporta had set an August 10th deadline for pursuing other targets, suggesting this avenue might be closing.
Adding a twist, reports suggest Atletico Madrid might be open to selling Alvarez to a direct domestic rival, potentially complicating matters further. TeamTalk is reporting that Alvarez's only remaining viable options are now Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
While both Premier League and Ligue 1 giants are not widely expected to meet the potential £150 million+ valuation, the possibility remains. There have been speculative links suggesting Arsenal might explore a player-plus-cash deal involving Viktor Gyokeres to lower the cost, though this is viewed as unlikely.
Without a significant development or a change of heart from either the player or the clubs involved, Alvarez could find himself back in training with Atletico Madrid sooner rather than later.