Atlético Madrid’s chief executive, Miguel Ángel Gil Marín, has said the club will not sell Júlian Alvarez to Barcelona under any circumstances, accusing their La Liga rivals of dishonesty and poor professionalism. The dispute matters because Barcelona president Joan Laporta had publicly expressed interest in the Argentina forward, escalating a potential transfer saga before the summer deadline.

Atlético’s board unanimously supported the refusal to negotiate, despite Alvarez having indicated he wants to leave and being booed during a 2-2 draw with Villarreal. The 26-year-old, also linked with Arsenal, has said he wants to fulfil a dream by departing; Gil Marín hopes he stays but said an alternative destination could be considered before Tuesday’s deadline.