Atlético chooses Julian's replacement

The red and white team is searching the forward market to replace the possible departure of the Spider towards FC Barcelona

Carlos Medina | 13 Jul 2026 | 16.00
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Julián Álvarez intends to leave Atlético de Madrid / Instagram
Julián Álvarez intends to leave Atlético de Madrid / Instagram

La Liga
1 X 2
Atletico Madrid Malaga
16/08/26 17:00:00
1.29 5.25 10.00

Atlético de Madrid is studying the signing of a forward after Julián Álvarez expressed his desire to seek new horizons this summer. Faced with this scenario, the sports management has allegedly revived interest in Lautaro Martínez, a striker who has been a long-standing target for the Madrid-based club and shares the attack with Araña in the Argentine national team.

The possible departure of Julián would require Atlético de Madrid to turn to the market for a top-level forward. It's not just about finding a replacement, but about incorporating a player capable of maintaining the team's competitive level and taking on offensive leadership in a project that continues to aim at competing for all titles.

Lautaro back on Atlético de Madrid's agenda

The name of Lautaro has never disappeared from Atlético de Madrid's reports. The 28-year-old Argentine international is currently experiencing one of the best moments of his career after establishing himself as captain and a reference for Inter Milan, besides remaining a key player for the Argentine national team.

During the 2025-26 season, the striker once again achieved elite figures, surpassing the 25 official goals mark across all competitions and remaining one of the most decisive forwards in European football. His ability to play with his back to goal, attack spaces, and lead the press fits the profile that Diego Simeone has historically sought.

Lautaro Martínez is liked by Cholo Simeone since his time at Racing Club / Getty Images

The major obstacle remains financial. Lautaro recently renewed with Inter until 2029, a contract that strengthens the negotiating position of the Italian club. His market value currently stands at 85 million euros, making any operation demand a historic investment for the rojiblanco team.

Argentina brings together the two top forwards

Both players maintain an excellent relationship within the Argentine national team, where they have shared numerous matches under the guidance of the Albiceleste coaching staff. This connection is also attractive for Atlético, which seeks to minimize the impact of such an important potential departure.

The coexistence of Lautaro and Julián Álvarez in the world champion team has shown that both can alternate or even complement each other depending on the team's tactical needs. This international experience explains why Atlético believes that the Inter forward can naturally assume the void that his compatriot would leave.

Lautaro's prestige has also been solidified thanks to his performances in Serie A, the Champions League, and major international competitions. His leadership has grown in recent years, making him one of the most respected captains in Italian football.

A complex operation for Atlético de Madrid

Despite the sporting interest, the negotiation will not be easy. Inter does not contemplate parting ways with their captain unless a very significant proposal is made from an economic standpoint. Furthermore, several Premier League and Saudi Arabian clubs also remain vigilant for any movements related to the Argentine international.

Atlético de Madrid is aware that it must first resolve the situation with Julián Álvarez before initiating a formal offensive. A sale of the forward would free up a significant amount of financial resources that could be allocated towards signing a new offensive reference.

Meanwhile, the sports management continues to analyze the market, with Lautaro emerging as the candidate that generates the most consensus both for quality and for experience and adaptation to the rojiblanco playing style.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, El Atlético elige al sustituto de Julián