Report: Barcelona face FIFA complaint as Atletico fight to keep Julian Alvarez

A source at Barcelona confirmed to AFP on Thursday that Atletico have reported the matter to world football's governing body over what they believe was unauthorised contact with the 26-year-old forward.

The complaint follows Alvarez's comments during the FIFA World Cup, when he suggested it would be "the best thing for everyone" if Atletico allowed him to leave, with Barcelona keen to sign him before the new season.

Atletico believe Barcelona contacted the player directly in an attempt to persuade him to push for a transfer, something that would breach FIFA regulations governing negotiations with contracted players.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta publicly revealed at the beginning of July that the clubs had submitted an offer for Alvarez and intended to keep it on the table while waiting for Atletico's response.

Reports in Spain have also claimed Atletico have filed a complaint with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), although the federation has not commented on the matter.

The transfer saga has already attracted attention this summer after Atletico turned down a bid worth 150 million euros from Real Madrid in June. The offer was widely viewed in Spain as a move that could complicate Barcelona's attempts to land the Argentine international.

Barcelona are searching for a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who left the clubs at the end of last season, and Alvarez has emerged as their top attacking target.

Alvarez joined Atletico from Manchester City in 2024 in a deal worth up to 85 million euros and has quickly become one of the Spanish clubs' most important players, making Atletico determined to resist Barcelona's interest.