FC Barcelona is under investigation by the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) for allegedly making improper contact with Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez while the Argentine striker remains under contract until 2030.

The investigation stems from a formal complaint filed by Atlético Madrid on June 30, 2026, and centers on a reported €100 million offer allegedly made outside the designated transfer windows.

What Atlético is claiming

Atlético Madrid says Barcelona went around them and talked directly to their player. Atlético alleges that Barcelona’s approach constituted a pressure campaign after the club rejected an offer for Álvarez. The implication is that Barcelona, having been told “no” by Atlético’s front office, decided to take its pitch directly to the player instead.

The accusations point to potential breaches of ethics guidelines and player conduct rules established within the Spanish football ecosystem.

Barcelona’s defense and the bigger picture

Barcelona insists it has followed all applicable regulations and has expressed confidence that the investigation will not result in sanctions.

The RFEF is still evaluating the case, and depending on what its review uncovers, the matter could potentially be escalated to FIFA.

If the RFEF determines that Barcelona did violate contact rules, potential consequences could range from fines to transfer restrictions.