Barcelona have been fined €602 by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) after Atletico Madrid complained about their approach for Julian Alvarez during the summer transfer window.
The Catalan club will appeal the decision, according to Marca, and insist they followed the correct procedures when expressing interest in the Argentina striker. Atletico accused Barcelona of contacting Alvarez without first notifying them in writing.
Barcelona maintain that they informed Atletico of their interest and submitted an offer directly to the Madrid club, but received no response. The clubs did not reach an agreement over a transfer fee.
The fine was imposed under Article 133 of the RFEF’s disciplinary regulations. Barcelona are challenging the ruling despite its modest financial value because they believe accepting the sanction would amount to an admission of wrongdoing.
Atletico lodged their complaint in July. They also referred the matter to Fifa, which said it had no jurisdiction over the dispute between the two Spanish clubs.
Alvarez remains under contract with Atletico until June 2030. His future became a subject of debate after he said during the 2026 World Cup that he wanted to fulfil his dream of playing for Barcelona.
The comments angered sections of the Atletico support, and the striker was frequently booed at the Metropolitano this season. He apologised for his remarks before scoring the winner against Deportivo La Coruna on Saturday, his second goal in as many matches.
“It was a mistake,” Alvarez said. “I understand why the fans are angry. If I were a fan, I’d be angry too. Especially given how they’ve supported me since I arrived.”
