Manchester City has reached an agreement with Atlético Madrid for the transfer of striker Julián Álvarez, as confirmed by a source to ESPN. The deal is reported to be worth up to €95 million ($104m) for the Argentina international, making it City’s record departure deal. While €75m will be paid upfront, an additional €20m will be included in performance-based add-ons. This move marks a significant profit for City, considering they initially paid only €14m for Álvarez when he joined from River Plate in January 2022.
Álvarez’s Impact at City
The departure of Julián Álvarez comes after his impressive stint at Manchester City, where he scored 36 goals in 103 games over two years. His contributions were crucial in helping the club secure a treble in 2023 and another Premier League title last season. Despite his success on the pitch, Álvarez’s role as a backup to Erling Haaland raised concerns about his playing time. With limited opportunities to become Guardiola’s first-choice striker, Álvarez sought regular football elsewhere, leading to his departure from City.
City’s Future Plans
City had anticipated a quiet summer transfer window following the signing of Brazil winger Savinho. However, Álvarez’s impending move has forced the club to reconsider their options. With Haaland’s history of injuries, including a two-month absence last season, City will need to decide whether to seek a replacement for Álvarez. Despite Álvarez’s consistent performance, appearing in 54 games across all competitions, City must now address the void left by his departure.
Manchester City’s agreement with Atlético Madrid for Julián Álvarez’s transfer signifies a significant milestone for both clubs. The record-breaking deal reflects Álvarez’s impact at City and the club’s strategic decision to secure a profitable transfer. As City navigates the departure of a key player, they face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement while maintaining their competitive edge in the upcoming season. The departure of Álvarez marks the end of an era at Manchester City, signaling a new chapter for the club as they strive for continued success in the Premier League and beyond.
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