Julián Álvarez’s future remains uncertain, with the Argentina striker reportedly unwilling to return to Manchester City or move back to the Premier League.

The Atlético Madrid forward has become one of the biggest names in this summer’s transfer saga, with Arsenal and Barcelona both linked with a move.

Manchester City have reportedly explored the possibility of bringing Álvarez back to the Etihad Stadium, where he previously played before joining Atlético Madrid. However, Cadena SER reports that the 26-year-old rejected the prospect of returning to England before City could make a formal offer.

Álvarez is also reportedly reluctant to join Arsenal, despite the Premier League club viewing him as a major attacking target. His preference is said to be remaining in Spain, with Barcelona believed to be his preferred destination.

Barcelona previously made a €100 million offer for the striker, but Atlético have made it clear they do not want to negotiate his sale to their La Liga rivals. The Madrid club has reportedly maintained that there is a “zero per cent chance” of Álvarez joining Barcelona.

Reports from Spain also suggest that family immigration and residency considerations are among the reasons behind Álvarez’s reluctance to return to England. Those details have been reported by Spanish and other European outlets and should be treated as reported factors rather than a confirmed statement from the player himself.

For now, Álvarez remains at the centre of a complicated transfer standoff, with his desire to stay in Spain potentially shaping where he plays next season.

Julián Álvarez’s next move could be one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.