Atletico Madrid snapped a high‑profile bid from Real Madrid, turning down a £129m (€150m) offer for forward Julian Alvarez. The Spanish club’s social media team posted a snide reply, mocking the rivals and highlighting Alvarez’s £431m (€500m) release clause. The striker is locked to Atletico until 2030.

The rejection came amid a season where Madrid’s president promised a Galáctico transfer worth the club’s highest fee ever. Perez pledged to target a midfielder, rejecting names like Michael Olise and Erling Haaland, and hinted at a sizable €150m bid for an undisclosed player. Atletico’s stance signals a defensive approach in the transfer market.

Atletico also posted parody images of Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Raphinha wearing club shirts, echoing earlier accusations that Barcelona ran a “smear campaign” over Alvarez. The social media exchange underscores the fierce rivalry in the Spanish capital and the growing importance of transfer drama in shaping club identities.

With Real Madrid’s offer rejected, the club is free to focus on internal plans, including the announced signings of Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries. The move cements Atletico’s defensive stance and keeps Alvarez firmly in the squad, ensuring the team remains competitive in La Liga and the Champions League.