Barcelona chief breaks silence on Julian Alvarez after Liverpool transfer links

Barcelona's sporting director Deco has confirmed the Spanish team has not spoken to Julian Alvarez, as Arsenal continues to monitor the Atletico Madrid forward ahead of the summer transfer window

Julian Alvarez continues to be linked with Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)

Barcelona chief Deco has confirmed that the Spanish club has not held talks with Julian Alvarez about a potential transfer to Camp Nou.

The Argentine forward is on the radar of several clubs this summer. Arsenal is among the clubs showing interest, while Barcelona is believed to be scheming a move. Liverpool is also linked to Alvarez, a former Manchester City star and World Cup winner.

When questioned about a possible transfer, Barcelona's sporting director Deco revealed that discussions have not yet commenced. He said: "We have not spoken to any club or player. This is not the time to do it, no matter how much we like them.

"We'll talk when it's time. It's February. There are many players that we like. We'll see. We have two strikers. This is not the time to make decisions."

Alvarez, 26, signed for Atletico Madrid in 2024 and has since netted 42 goals in 94 appearances for the Spanish team. He remains contracted with the Spanish side until the summer of 2030.

It's been suggested that Atleti are hoping to pocket around £167 million ($225 million) should they decide to sell the forward this summer.

Alvarez has impressed in the Spanish capital(Image: Getty Images)

Arsenal legend Ray Parlour has already voiced his thoughts on a move for Alvarez, suggesting that he would be an excellent replacement for Gabriel Jesus at the Emirates.

"I think Jesus might leave at the end of the season, he is at that age where he wants to be playing week in, week out," Parlour told Metro via BetMGM.

"We could lose him. We had four strikers when I played. That's what I don't understand. (Regardless of Jesus leaving), bring in another one anyway.

"That can give the other options a lift because they see the standard being set.

"For me, Alvarez would be a great addition to the squad. There will always be people coming and going in the summer because it's a big squad and they can't keep everyone happy.

"But Alvarez would be a fantastic option to have with his pace and what we saw at Man City.

"It was always going to be difficult for him playing with Erling Haaland there, but when he did start and when he did play, he was always lively.

"He's a young man too, so if he's available, it's a yes for me. We know how Arteta likes to work with young players to make them better, so I think it would be a great addition, definitely."