Atlético de Madrid is experiencing one of the worst starts to a season in recent years. Three matchdays and no wins in the league. The fans feel it, so does the squad.
The team, which has invested large sums in signings, can't string together positive results. The sense of crisis grows day by day. A club used to fighting for everything is watching the league slip away little by little.
The pressure on Diego Simeone is increasing. Not everyone in the locker room seems happy with the situation. Among them is Julián Álvarez, the Argentine forward who arrived to be the great star of the rojiblanco project.
Julián Álvarez, a gem seeking to shine
The forward left Manchester City with the idea of leading Atlético. Many expected him to shine alongside established stars, but the results aren't coming. Despite his enormous quality and being considered one of the best center-forwards in Europe, the team can't show that collective potential it needs.
Frustration is growing; each matchday without a win makes Julián question his future. It's clear that his talent deserves a stage where he can fight for titles and shine individually. At Atlético, as of today, he feels he's not being used to his fullest.
Barça, watching the opportunity
In Barcelona, they've kept an eye on the forward's situation. Joan Laporta and his team know there's a dissatisfied player at the Metropolitano. For the blaugrana club, it's the perfect opportunity; the need for a goalscorer after Lewandowski's departure meets Julián's desire to be in a competitive team.
Different sources say they view favorably a project where he can make a difference. The symbiosis seems clear: a team that needs goals and a forward who needs titles.
Rumors and expectations
The transfer market is hot, and the possible deal is generating expectations. Although Atlético hasn't made a statement yet, conversations between Barça and Julián's camp are progressing quietly. Everything indicates that, if both parties reach an agreement, the transfer could be finalized without too many problems.
For Julián, it would be a natural step; for Barcelona, a statement signing. A young forward, hungry for success, capable of making a difference in key matches. Everything fits.
The scenario is clear: Julián Álvarez and Barça seem destined to meet. The Argentine is looking for a team where he can show his level and fight for titles. Barcelona needs a forward to fill the void left by Lewandowski.