The race for Julián Álvarez is now pulling Barcelona and Atlético de Madrid into a tougher negotiation. Diego Simeone does not appear convinced by Ferran Torres as part of any deal, even if Barça try to use him to reduce the cost of the move.
According to www.elnacional.cat, the Atlético coach wants any player included in the conversation to bring real value, because losing Julián would already be a major sporting blow. That is why the focus inside the talks has shifted toward Marc Bernal, the 19-year-old academy midfielder Barcelona would rather keep.
Why Ferran Torres does not fully convince Simeone
Ferran’s experience in LaLiga and his work rate could fit Simeone’s style on paper, but the doubts are stronger than the appeal. His World Cup performances have again left questions about his scoring touch, his impact in big moments, and the consistency Atlético would need if they lose their most decisive attacker.
The problem is not only about money. Simeone sees Julián Álvarez as a key difference-maker in the squad, so replacing him with cash and a player who does not fully convince would not be enough to make the deal feel balanced.
| Player | Atlético view | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Ferran Torres | Not fully convincing | Experience helps, but doubts remain over goals and big-game impact |
| Marc Bernal | Much more attractive | Seen as a midfielder with physicality, personality, and strong potential |
Bernal could change the tone of the deal
Marc Bernal is the name that draws the most interest at Atlético because of his profile. The 19-year-old offers physical presence, good reading as a holding midfielder, and the kind of projection that fits the club’s rebuild in the middle of the pitch.
Barcelona, however, do not want to lose him. Hansi Flick sees Bernal as a long-term bet, which makes him far more difficult to include than Ferran Torres in any discussion around Julián Álvarez.
Mateu Alemany is also aware that any attempt to bring Julián to the Camp Nou will be extremely difficult, and Atlético will only listen if the compensation feels truly strong. For now, that leaves Barcelona trying to push for a deal while Simeone makes clear that only a proposal with genuine sporting value will get his attention.