Transfer fee, additional clauses, first reactions: Julian Alvarez signs for Atletico Madrid from Manchester City

Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez has completed a club-record transfer to La Liga giants Atletico Madrid.

The 24-year-old becomes the most expensive sanctioned sale by Manchester City, departing the Etihad Stadium just two years after signing from River Plate for £14 million, and exceeding the £47.5 million sale of Raheem Sterling in 2022.

Alvarez, who has made 103 appearances for Manchester City, registered 32 direct goal involvements for Pep Guardiola’s last season, and made his final appearance during the FA Cup Final loss to Manchester United at Wembley Stadium.

The striker, who won the Copa America with Argentina this summer and FIFA World Cup in 2022, has won six trophies with Manchester City, including two Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League.

Alvarez has netted 36 goals for Manchester City, scoring on debut in an FA Community Shield loss to Liverpool, prior to scoring his first Premier League goal during a 6-0 win over Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium.

The 24-year-old’s last goal came during a crucial 0-4 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage in May, as the victory propelled the Blues to a record-breaking fourth consecutive Premier League title.

Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal have also been credited in holding an interest in the striker, who has become the second Manchester City player to move to La Liga this summer, following Real Sociedad’s move for Sergio Gomez.

The Argentina international has completed a club-record exit from Manchester City to the Cívitas Metropolitano, and here everything you need to know about Alvarez’s transfer to Atletico Madrid!

What are the terms of the Julian Alvarez transfer to Atletico Madrid from Manchester City?

The 24-year-old has left Manchester City in a club-record €95 million deal, with the transfer involving an initial €75 million fee and €20 million in add-ons, City Xtra understand.

Manchester City are set to make a staggering £67.5 million profit, having signed Julian Alvarez from River Plate in 2022 for just £14 million.

What have Manchester City said about the transfer?

A Manchester City statement said: “Julian Alvarez has completed a permanent transfer to Spanish side Atletico Madrid. The move brings to an end a hugely successful two-year stay at the Etihad for the Argentine striker who joined City from River Plate in 2022.

Director of Football Txiki Begiristain said: “Everyone at Manchester City wishes Julian all the very best with the next stage of his career, he has been a pleasure to work with.

“His attitude has been first-class since he first walked through the door here. That’s why he has improved so much. The trophies he has won already tell their own story – he is a winner. I look forward to watching him develop further in the remainder of his career.”

What has Julian Alvarez said about the transfer?

Speaking to Manchester City’s official website, Alvarez said: “Today I say goodbye to this amazing club, with a lot of emotion. These have been two very special years. During this time, I have grown and learnt a lot – both as a player and as a person.

“To the directors and the technical staff, thank you for your confidence and support. Your teachings and vision have helped me to develop so much.

“To my teammates, thank you for every moment we have shared, for the effort and dedication in every training session and every match. I have learnt a lot from each and every one of you and I remain with memories and friendships that will last forever.”

How have Atletico Madrid reacted to the deal?

An Atletico Madrid statement, read: “Our club and Manchester City have reached an agreement for the transfer of the World Cup and American champion striker to the Argentine national team, who has signed a contract for the next six seasons.

“Atlético de Madrid and Manchester City have reached an agreement for the transfer of Julián Alvarez, who has signed for our club until 2030. The 24-year-old Argentine, a full international for his country, is a versatile, fast, skilful forward with great ability to link up with his teammates. He is also capable of playing as an attacking midfielder.”

We wish Julian Alvarez all the very best on his transfer to Atletico Madrid, and in his future footballing endeavours both for club and country!