Last Updated on June 23, 2026
Julian Alvarez has told Atletico Madrid he wants a transfer after Argentina’s World Cup win over Austria, with Real Madrid, Barcelona and PSG all linked. Manchester United also move closer to their 100,000-seat stadium, while Wayne Rooney reflects on his managerial regrets.
Julian Alvarez confirms he wants to leave Atletico Madrid
Argentina forward Julian Alvarez has publicly confirmed he wants to leave Atletico Madrid this summer, speaking after Argentina’s Group J win over Austria at the 2026 World Cup on Monday. "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," the 26-year-old said in the mixed zone.
The admission opens the door to a major move, with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain all linked with the striker. Earlier in June, Real Madrid lodged a bid of 150 million euros, which Atletico rejected before issuing a pointed public response. Atletico have also previously joked about rumours of Barcelona interest in the player. You can follow the odds on Alvarez’s transfer destination at the top crypto betting sites.
Alvarez joined Atletico from Manchester City in the summer of 2024, having earlier made his name at River Plate in his native Argentina. His comments place pressure on Atletico, who lose his goals and link play if a deal is sanctioned. "I don’t really want to talk about it, but I want to be honest," Alvarez added, signalling his desire is genuine rather than a negotiating ploy.
Manchester United move closer to 100,000-seat stadium
Manchester United have secured most of the land needed to build a new stadium with a capacity of 100,000, announcing on Monday the purchase of a 10-hectare site near current home Old Trafford. The triangular plot sits 350 metres north-west of Old Trafford and is a significant step in plans to build Britain’s largest sports arena.
The acquisition means United are no longer dependent on securing an adjacent area owned by the Freightliner company, whose goods terminal had been seen as a complicating factor in the planning. United have said a masterplan for the wider Old Trafford district is due to be published on 9 July.
Wayne Rooney admits regrets over coaching career
Former Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney says he harbours regrets about his managerial career and cannot see himself returning to the dugout. The all-time top scorer for both club and country has taken charge at clubs including Derby County and DC United since retiring as a player, but reflected candidly on the toll the role took on him.
Briefly from the rest
Argentina beat Austria in their World Cup Group J fixture, with the result confirming Lionel Scaloni’s side as the in-form contenders following the win.
Swedish full-back Isak Dahlqvist, 24, has joined Norwegian club Tromso from Austrian Bundesliga side FC Blau-Weiss Linz on a contract until the end of 2029. The right-sided defender made 12 appearances for Linz and previously scored 18 goals in 106 games for Orgryte in Sweden’s Superettan.
AGF’s Markus Solbakken says he could sense how much the role of Norway national team coach pressured his father, Stale Solbakken, whose World Cup smile was felt all the way from the United States to Aarhus.
Ofte stillede spørgsmål
Does Julian Alvarez want to leave Atletico Madrid?
Yes. Alvarez confirmed after Argentina’s World Cup win over Austria that he wants a transfer, saying the best thing for everyone is a move and that he wants to ‘fulfil his dream’.
Which clubs are linked with Julian Alvarez?
Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have all been linked. Real Madrid lodged a 150 million euro bid earlier in June, which Atletico rejected.
When did Alvarez join Atletico Madrid?
He joined Atletico from Manchester City in the summer of 2024, having previously played for River Plate in Argentina.
How big will Manchester United’s new stadium be?
The planned stadium will hold 100,000 spectators, making it Britain’s largest sports arena. United have bought a 10-hectare site near Old Trafford and will publish a masterplan on 9 July.
What did Wayne Rooney say about management?
Rooney said he harbours regrets about his managerial career and cannot see himself returning to the dugout.