According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Julian Alvarez’s potential transfer has reached a decisive stage. After weeks of tension between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid over the Argentine forward’s future, Alvarez himself may now need to step forward and put pressure on both clubs in order to push them toward a resolution.

At the beginning of the World Cup, Alvarez made a major statement by publicly expressing his desire to leave Atletico Madrid and “fulfill his dream.” Although he did not directly mention Barcelona, his stance was made clear amid Atletico’s refusal to open transfer negotiations. The situation, however, was temporarily put on hold afterward.

An incident last Friday reportedly became the final straw for Alvarez and his camp. Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Marin strongly criticized Barcelona and club president Joan Laporta, firmly stating that Atletico would not sell Alvarez to the Catalan side this summer, regardless of the offer. He suggested that the Argentine striker is considered untouchable and that the issue is not about the transfer fee.

Alvarez reportedly believes Atletico’s management has gone back on its promise. Several months ago, the club allegedly assured him that if he personally requested a departure, they would allow him to leave. After the season ended, Alvarez formally submitted a transfer request, but Atletico not only refused to set a sale price, they insisted that only the payment of his €500 million release clause would be enough to secure his departure, effectively blocking any possible move.

The Argentine forward is said to have many thoughts he wants to express publicly. If Alvarez holds a press conference and openly reveals his position, the transfer situation could completely spiral out of control. Atletico reportedly does not want to create further controversy, but if Alvarez publicly states his desire to join Barcelona, there may be no room left for compromise.

The decision now appears to be in the player’s hands. Alvarez, who was still hesitant just days ago, could soon choose to make his position clear and force the issue into the open.