Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez has pledged that Argentina will continue working hard under head coach Lionel Scaloni despite suffering a 2-1 friendly loss against Uruguay on Friday. Contesting their first fixture since iconic captain Lionel Messi hung up his international boots last month, the hosts fell short against Diego Forlan's visitors at La Bombonera.
Fulham are leading the race to sign Real Betis winger Rodrigo Riquelme ahead of the January transfer window as multiple European clubs track the Spaniard. The Liga outfit have placed a €20 million minimum valuation on the 26-year-old attacker after his strong start to the campaign in Seville.
Julian Alvarez’s public transfer demand caused significant frustration within the Atletico Madrid dressing room, according to team-mate Alex Baena. The Argentina forward pushed for a summer move to Barcelona, leading to internal tension and a hostile reception from supporters at the Metropolitano.
Premier League champions Arsenal and Atletico Madrid could reportedly negotiate a sensational winter swap deal. The proposed move would see midfielder Martin Zubimendi head to the Spanish capital, while forward Julian Alvarez would complete a return to English football with the Gunners.
Austria Lustenau
