Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has publicly confirmed the interest shown by Paris Saint-Germain – and other European football giants – in Julián Álvarez (26).

“I can’t read his mind. It’s only natural that a player like Julián is coveted by Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona. It’s only natural. He’s very good,” Cholo admitted to the press on the eve of his Champions League semi-final first leg against the Gunners.

Although he remains under contract with Atlético Madrid until 2030 – having joined them two seasons ago from Manchester City – Álvarez has been the subject of numerous transfer rumours in recent months. The most persistent of these even suggest he is already on his way to Barcelona.

A key part of Simeone’s system, the Argentine has started 40 of the 47 matches he has played since the start of the season, finding the net 19 times and providing nine assists across all competitions.