Julian Alvarez is reportedly expected to be priced out of a move away from Manchester City during this summer's transfer window, with the Citizens unwilling to sell him for a cut-price fee.
The 24-year-old has proven to be a successful signing for Pep Guardiola's side, scoring 36 times and registering 18 assists in 103 appearances for the club since his arrival from River Plate in January 2022.
Alvarez helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup and 2024 Copa America, and he is now representing his country at the Olympics in Paris.
The forward signed a contract extension with Man City in March 2023, with his deal now running until June 2028, but there has been speculation surrounding his future this summer.
Alvarez is believed to be keen to leave the Citizens in search of pastures new, as he wants to be a guaranteed starter at this stage of his career.
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Alvarez 'pushing' to leave Man City this summer
According to The Athletic, Alvarez is also keen to move to a country with a warmer climate, having found it difficult to fully settle in Manchester.
Atletico Madrid have been credited with an interest in the South American, but it is being claimed that a summer move is unlikely due to Man City's valuation.
The English champions will allegedly not allow Alvarez to leave unless they receive an offer of around £60m plus a further £17m in add-ons, which will price the majority of teams in world football out of a deal.
Atletico are believed to be keen on the South American but will pull out of negotiations if it becomes clear that there is no movement on Man City's valuation.
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Can Man City afford to let Alvarez leave?
Erling Haaland and Phil Foden were Man City's two most productive players last season in terms of goals, with the former managing 38 in all competitions, while the latter had 27.
Alvarez was next in the list, managing 19 goals in 54 appearances, while he also came up with 13 assists.
No player featured on more occasions for Man City than Alvarez last term, further demonstrating his importance, but personal reasons are seemingly playing a big role in the forward wanting to leave Manchester.
There is speculation surrounding the futures of the likes of Ederson and Kevin De Bruyne this summer, and while Alvarez is not one of the star names in the squad, it would be a huge blow if he departed, especially as there are a number of unknowns when it comes to Haaland's long-term future.
Matt Law
