Explained: Why Julian Alvarez’s £82m move to Atletico Madrid was in jeopardy as Manchester City star finally agrees personal terms with La Liga giants

Man City’s Julian Alvarez is nearing a move to Atletico Madrid, though the deal was in jeopardy at one stage.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Alvarez will join Atletico Madrid after finally agreeing personal terms with the La Liga side. It was reported by Ben Jacobs that, despite Atletico and Manchester City agreeing a fee, the deal was in jeopardy over “a disagreement” between the club and player over Alvarez’s base salary and contract length. But the parties have now reached an agreement, according to Fabrizio Romano,

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Romano reported that there was a difference of around €2m/€3m (£1.7m/£2.6m) between Alvarez and Atleti at one stage of the negotiations. Los Rojiblancos returned with an improved offer and have now satisfied Alvarez, who will become City’s record sale when he departs for £82m ($104m/€95m).

DID YOU KNOW?

The hold-up in the Alvarez deal was impacting the transfers involving Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher and Atletico’s Saul Omorodion. With the Alvarez domino now set to fall, Gallagher is also expected to sign for the Spanish club while Omorodion may join Chelsea.

WHAT NEXT FOR ALVAREZ?

Alvarez wanted to be the main man and he will now get that opportunity in Spain. The Argentina international is due a holiday following an extended season that also included appearances at the Copa America and Olympics, but he’ll first hope to complete the formalities of his move to the Spanish capital.