Man City decide Julian Alvarez price as striker 'wants to leave' after Olympics

Manchester City have reportedly named their asking price for Julian Alvarez, who is said to be keen on leaving the Etihad Stadium this summer. Alvarez, who is currently representing Argentina at the Olympics, is reportedly eager to seek a fresh challenge after growing disillusioned with his playing time.

The 24-year-old played in 36 league games last season but was used to cover a variety of positions rather than as City’s first-choice in his preferred striking role. He remains tied down until the summer of 2028 but it seems he is looking for a way out ahead of the new campaign.

Alvarez is keen to leave City having been left frustrated by his recent playing time, according to The Athletic. It is also said that he would welcome a move to a warmer climate, a view shared by the family members who have followed him to England.

However, the report adds that Alvarez could be priced out of a move with City demanding a transfer fee of around £60million. The reigning Premier League champions will also be looking for around £17m in add-ons, making a deal hugely expensive for any interested party.

Atletico Madrid are thought to be keen admirers of Alvarez, who joined City from River Plate two years ago in a deal worth around £18m. They are reportedly unwilling to meet City’s demands, meaning a move to Spain will not be on the cards unless a compromise is reached.

There seems to be little chance of Alvarez getting more minutes at City next season, with Erling Haaland their undisputed starting striker. However, the fee they are demanding in exchange for his signature could prevent him from moving to a club where he would take up a leading role.

City have a policy of not standing in the way of players who want to leave, which suggests there could be room for Atletico to negotiate a cheaper deal. They have also been widely tipped to sell Joao Felix, potentially giving them more cash to boost their hopes of signing Alvarez.

It remains to be seen if City will be able to convince him to stay and fight for his place, with Pep Guardiola clearly a huge fan of his talents. He previously described Alvarez as an ‘amazing’ asset for his team, who will shortly go in search of a fifth straight Premier League title.

Speaking after Alvarez scored a brace against Burnley in January, Guardiola said: “Julian is amazing. He’s an extraordinary player and many things help us. Really good, so very pleased for him today. Not just for the goals, the many things he does.”