Following mounting speculation, Real Madrid took the highly unusual step of publishing a formal announcement regarding their transfer business today. The club have confirmed they saw a monumental €150m proposal for
The official club statement read: “Real Madrid C. F. announces that, following the meeting of the Board of Directors held today, it has made an offer of 150 million euros to Club Atletico de Madrid for the federative rights of the player Julian Alvarez. After reviewing and evaluating the offer, Club Atlético de Madrid has expressed its gratitude for the proposal, made within the framework of the good relations between both clubs, and has rejected it, referring to the player’s release clause.”
Perez delivers on his Galactico promise
The bold move directly follows Perez being re-elected as club president on Sunday, after defeating rival Enrique Riquelme. During his campaign, the 79-year-old
Before the revelation, Perez told Spanish TV show Horizonte: “On Tuesday or so, I’m going to make an offer to a major Champions League club for a great player. It would be the largest transfer fee Real Madrid has ever paid in its history. We’re going to make a significant offer, at least around €150 million. He needs to be a midfielder who can drive forward. And it’s not Haaland. The player is not from the Premier League. And the first thing we’ll do is talk to the club. It’s a signing meant to generate excitement because that’s what it’s all about- generating excitement.”
Rival interest and release clause complications
Despite identifying their prime target, Los Blancos face significant obstacles. It was initially thought that the Argentine forward possessed a €500m (£431m/$577m) release clause in his Atletico contract. However, reports indicate his deal contains provisions for certain Champions League sides, potentially allowing them to secure his services for closer to €150m.
Real Madrid are not the only European powerhouse chasing the prolific attacker, as Barcelona reportedly saw a €100m bid rejected just last week. Meanwhile, the Santiago Bernabeu outfit have also confirmed the departure of first-team coach Alvaro Arbeloa. They released a separate statement expressing their gratitude to the manager, which subsequently paves the way for Jose Mourinho to make a sensational return.
What comes next for Real Madrid?
Real Madrid must now decide whether to return with an improved offer or activate the release clause to force Atletico into a sale. With
