Julian Alvarez has not trained with Atletico Madrid after the club privately told him they will not sell him to Barcelona. Sources say Atletico communicated this to the 26-year-old and his advisers earlier this week, and he has since missed two consecutive training sessions. The club also issued two public statements in 24 hours, reiterating that Alvarez will not be allowed to join Barca.

However, Atletico are open to selling him to Arsenal, and director Mateu Alemany met with Arsenal officials in London last week, indicating a fee of 150 million euros (£128 million) would be accepted. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is keen to sign Alvarez, but his preference for Barcelona has stalled talks. Still, discussions between the clubs have been positive, and a deal could progress if Alvarez gives the green light.

Atletico's board released a statement saying there is zero chance of selling to Barca, doubling down on their refusal.