The biggest soap opera of the summer has taken another turn. Julián Álvarez has contacted Atlético Madrid to receive his individual training plan for the week before officially rejoining the squad, according to MARCA, with the striker widely expected to report back on August 10.

Every Atlético player who featured at the World Cup received an individual training programme to follow under the club's supervision, and Álvarez will adhere to those guidelines as the standoff over his future continues.

Barcelona waiting on a gesture

Álvarez has been radio silent since his bombshell transfer request over a month ago, and Barcelona's initial €100 million offer expired at the end of July. The Blaugrana are now expecting another public gesture from the Argentine to help convince Atlético to sell, and next week is set to be key in resolving the issue.

Arsenal turn their attention elsewhere

Álvarez has always viewed Barça as his number one destination, but Arsenal had been strongly pushing for a transfer of their own, with Atlético hoping to land striker Viktor Gyökeres as part of the deal. However, Gunners manager Mikel Arteta made it clear over the weekend that Gyökeres will not leave the club.

Arsenal now appear fully focused on securing a move for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr., and look to have dropped out of the race for Álvarez — handing Barcelona a clearer path in their pursuit of the striker.