Barcelona fined over approach for Atlético's Julián Álvarez

The Spanish FA has fined Barcelona €602 (£503), according to The Guardian, after Atlético Madrid complained about the club's contact with Julián Álvarez. Atlético said Barça approached the Argentine, whose contract runs until June 2030, without notifying them in writing first. The sanction falls under Article 133 of the federation's regulations. Atlético also took the case to Fifa, which said it had no jurisdiction.

Álvarez's own repair job has been more public. He scored the winner against Deportivo La Coruña on Saturday, his second goal in a row, which moved Atlético within two points of the league leaders. Before that, he apologised for telling the press during the 2026 World Cup that he wanted to fulfil his dream of playing for Barcelona, a remark that fuelled a transfer dispute through the whole summer.

The Metropolitano had booed him frequently this season, but parts of the crowd gave him a standing ovation after his goal on Saturday, a sign that the relationship with the fans is starting to thaw.