Julian Alvarez transfer latest as Atletico Madrid open talks with Man City amid Pep Guardiola warning

Atletico Madrid have stepped up their interest in Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez - a day after his exit from the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Alvarez sparked a telling reaction from manager Pep Guardiola when he told reporters in Paris that he would have to 'have a think' about his future.

"Last season I was one of the players who played the most minutes in the team," he said. "But it's true: in the end, in important games, you don't like being left out and you want to contribute."

Guardiola offered a spiky response, saying: "He said he'd think about it. When he finished thinking about it, his agent is going to call Txiki and we see what happens," the manager said. "He plays a lot, he wants more? That's fine. That why, think about it. When he thinks about it he'll inform us."

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Alvarez moved to diffuse the situation, saying he feels 'very good' at City, but didn't shut the door on a potential exit. On Friday, Argentina were knocked out of the Olympics by France, giving Alvarez the opportunity to go on holiday and consider his future.

As soon as Argentina were beaten, reports began to surface that Atletico Madrid had intensified their interest in Alvarez, and MEN Sport understands they have returned to the table regarding a deal for the striker. PSG are also heavily linked with a deal, but have not yet made an approach.

Under contract until 2028, City would command a hefty fee for the 24-year-old who has 54 goals or assists in 103 appearances for the Blues and is a World Cup, Copa America and Champions League winner. Offering an update on Friday, Guardiola had said