Julian Alvarez reveals honest Man City transfer stance as Enzo Maresca sent £127m Chelsea update

Chelsea have been dealt a blow to their hopes of signing Julian Alvarez. The 24-year-old striker has been heavily linked with a move to Stamford Bridge recently as Enzo Maresca looks to further bolster the Blues' frontline.

Alvarez, who sees his contract at the Etihad Stadium expire in 2028, featured 36 times in the Premier League this season, scoring 11 goals and providing nine assists. Playing a key role in Pep Guardiola's side, he helped Manchester City etch themselves into the history books, winning a fourth successive title.

The Argentina international also helped the club win the FIFA Club World Cup for the first time, netting a brace against Fluminense in the final. While his impressive performances have reportedly courted much interest, Alvarez has insisted that he's happy at Manchester City.

When asked about his future while away on Copa America with his country, Alvarez lifted the lid. As quoted by the Evening Standard, he told ESPN: "These are things that are said, but I am calm; I am comfortable and happy at City; we will see what happens."

Over the weekend, Atletico Madrid ruled themselves out of the race to sign Alvarez. Club president Enrique Cerezo said: "Julian Alvarez is a Manchester City player and I believe he won’t be moving from there."

In September 2023, Guardiola heaped tremendous praise on the Argentinian. The Spaniard said: "Really good – all the actions are really good and so quick. The assist from Erling was really good.

READ MORE: Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham wage bill compared to Premier League rivals

READ MORE: When Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham will discover new Premier League fixture list

"He is so young. What a signing the club have done. He has everything – fighting and goals and assists. Incredible, lovely guy. Playing behind Erling he is an incredible threat. Really pleased for him, he deserves it."

Then, in February 2024, Guardiola showered Alvarez with praise again, branding him an 'extraordinary player'. The City boss said: "Julian is amazing so he’s an extraordinary player and many things help us. Really good, so very pleased for his birthday, not just for the goals, the many things he does."

According to Fabrizio Romano, City have no intention to sell or loan Alvarez and a move will only materialise on two conditions: if the player requests to leave and if the club are offered 'a lot of money'. Interestingly, the CIES Football Observatory currently value him at an eye-watering €150million (£126.7m).