Julián Álvarez was booed by Atlético Madrid supporters during their 2-2 draw with Villarreal, adding further tension to the striker’s uncertain future ahead of the transfer deadline.
Álvarez started the match on the bench and was jeered by sections of the Atlético crowd while warming up. The reaction became even louder when the Argentine forward entered the game in the 66th minute.
After Giuliano Simeone rescued a point for Atlético late on, Álvarez headed straight down the tunnel at full time, prompting another round of boos from the home supporters.
However, Atlético manager Diego Simeone later explained that Álvarez’s decision to leave the pitch separately had been agreed beforehand by the club.
Softfootball understands that Arsenal have already made contact with Atlético Madrid to explore the conditions of a potential transfer.
Álvarez’s future has become increasingly uncertain after the forward reportedly expressed his desire to leave Atlético in order to “fulfil my dream”, with both Arsenal and Barcelona linked with a move.
A direct meeting also took place in London with Atlético director Mateu Alemany, with Arsenal seeking clarity over the financial requirements and overall conditions of a deal.
With Arsenal now exploring the possibility of a deal and Álvarez facing a hostile reaction from sections of the Atlético support, his future could become one of the biggest stories before deadline day.
