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Manchester United in contact with agent of Julian Alvarez
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Manchester United’s summer plans remain heavily focused on midfield reinforcements as INEOS continue shaping Michael Carrick’s squad rebuild.

The majority of the transfer budget is expected to be directed towards strengthening central areas of the pitch.

Despite that focus, United are now also being linked with movement in the forward line.

European reports suggest the club have stepped into a crowded race for a high-profile striker.

Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez is at the centre of growing transfer attention following his public comments on his future.

“I spoke with ​people at the club, with those I had to speak with and the ​best thing for everyone is ‌a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream,” Alvarez ​said.

Julian Alvarez is attracting interest from several top European clubs after expressing a desire to leave Atletico Madrid this summer, with Manchester United now among those monitoring his situation closely.

The Argentine forward has made no secret of his preferred destination being Barcelona, although Atletico have strongly resisted approaches from their La Liga rivals.

Manchester United contact agent of Julian Alvarez

United have made contact with the player’s representatives as they explore the conditions of a potential deal, as reported by Marcos Duran on X.

While interest is building across Europe, Barcelona remain Alvarez’s first choice, creating a significant obstacle for any other club hoping to secure his signature.

Atletico Madrid, however, have publicly maintained that the striker is not for sale unless their valuation is met.

The Spanish club are believed to be demanding around €150m for the forward, reflecting his importance to the squad.

Manchester United’s involvement in the race comes despite already investing in Benjamin Sesko last summer to strengthen their attacking options.

Sesko had a good debut season for United and reports came out recently that Barcelona are interested in him.

Julian Alvarez, who previously played for Manchester City’s rivals, remains one of the most productive forwards in La Liga after scoring 20 goals and providing 9 assists in 49 appearances last season.

Reports also suggest Atletico could be open to negotiating a player-plus-cash deal, with talks already taking place over possible United players of interest, although no names have been confirmed.

With Barcelona leading the player’s preference and Atletico standing firm on their valuation, any potential deal is expected to be very difficult.

This article first appeared on centredevils and was syndicated with permission.

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