8 hours ago
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Former Liverpool transfer target Julian Alvarez is keeping his composure regarding his future amid fresh speculation he could depart Atletico Madrid.
The Argentine forward was linked with a switch to Anfield during the summer transfer window. Ultimately, Atletico's valuation is believed to have deterred Liverpool, with the Reds subsequently pursuing Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak from Eintracht Frankfurt and Newcastle, respectively.
Despite Alvarez staying put in Madrid, questions surrounding his future persist. Barcelona represents the latest club to be connected with the 25-year-old, though he has reassured supporters that he's not contemplating a departure at present. Speaking to ESPN, he said: "I'm very calm.
"There's always talk, but the truth is that the season is just starting now.
"My focus is on improving every day, win for Atletico. That's the only thing on my mind... social media stories are beyond me."
Alvarez isn't the sole party to have provided clarity on his situation.
His representative, Fernando Hidalgo, recently broke his silence and disclosed that an official approach from Anfield never materialized.
"There were no official offers from Liverpool to sign Julian last season, and everything that has been said in this regard is false," Hidalgo told Erem News.
Hidalgo added: "Last summer, there were no offers because Atletico de Madrid didn't want to sell the player, so negotiations didn't take place."
Meanwhile, Atletico boss Diego Simeone also appears to have dismissed any speculation regarding an Alvarez departure, having voiced his determination to retain the Argentine striker at the Wanda Metropolitano.
He said: "Julian is the best player we have. We need to take care of him, to keep him here at Atleti for many years. He has to help us, and we have to help him, so he can become even better than he already is. Every time he makes a difference, he helps us a lot."
Alvarez made the move to Atletico Madrid from Manchester City 12 months ago, penning a six-year contract in the process. He found the back of the net 29 times across all competitions during his inaugural campaign in Spain.
The striker has also begun the new season in impressive fashion with seven strikes in eight outings, while he also delivered a standout performance in Tuesday's 5-1 triumph over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League.
Alvarez will be looking to continue his excellent start to the campaign when Atletico faces Celta Vigo this weekend.
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