Bombshell! Neither Barça nor Atlético, Julián Álvarez has a new team: 'He has opened the door'

Without a doubt, Julián Álvarez is one of the best "9"s in the world. He combines great speed to run behind opposing defenders with supreme quality in associative play. In addition, to complement all his strengths, he possesses a goal-scoring instinct within reach of only a select few.

Julián is, without question, Atlético de Madrid's franchise player. Since his arrival at the Metropolitano, he has shown himself to be the best signing for the rojiblancos in a long time, resolving tight matches with his talent. Simeone has given him the keys to the attack, and the Argentine has replied with goals, sacrifice, and a silent yet evident leadership.

However, despite his good fit under Simeone,  doubts about his future keep growing. Julián Álvarez is fully aware that he could play for any team in the world, because his profile fits almost all major European projects. That feeling of being ready for another step, combined with the moves of several clubs, has set off all the alarms at the Metropolitano.

Julián Álvarez says goodbye to Barça

For months, there has been persistent talk of a possible transfer to FC Barcelona. With Lewandowski approaching the final stretch of his career, the Argentine is the ideal replacement to lead the culé attack in the coming years. At Camp Nou, they dream of a "9" who not only finishes but also links up and creates advantages, exactly what Julián Álvarez offers.

However, according to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, it seems that Julián Álvarez's preference doesn't lie with Barça either. The Argentine striker is more inclined toward a change of scenery to another league and a different competitive context. The surprise has been total at both clubs after learning the news.

Julián Álvarez "opens the door" to PSG

PSG has been closely following Julián Álvarez for some time as a possible luxury reinforcement. In Paris, they believe his profile is perfect to lead a modern attack, capable of pressing high, linking up between the lines, and making decisions inside the box. In addition, being able to win the Champions League would be much closer.

According to Tavolieri, "Julián Álvarez has left the door open to a transfer to Paris, as long as the clubs reach an agreement". That detail is key: he isn't going to force his exit or publicly pressure the club, but he isn't closing the door to making the move either. If there is an understanding between the entities, the "9" is ready to take the step.

However, if PSG wants to beat Barça to the signing, they'll have to pay around 120 million, the amount Enrique Cerezo is asking to let his star leave. At the Metropolitano, they know they'd lose their most decisive player, but also that they'd receive an amount that would allow them to rebuild several lines of the team. The market is preparing for a possible historic move, and it all starts with an undeniable reality: Julián Álvarez has opened the door.