Julian Alvarez transfer latest: Atletico standing firm on Barcelona as Arsenal become only get out for Argentine striker

Julian Alvarez must take one of two paths before the transfer deadline: stay at Atletico Madrid and try to rebuild his connection with the fans or get his head around a potential move to Arsenal.

Atletico have told him again that they will not sell him to Barcelona and that - coupled with the reaction of the club's supporters on Sunday - has left him "devastated", according to well-placed sources in Spain.

The situation is now "extremely tense", according to Atletico expert and journalist Ruben Uría.