Real Madrid confirmed a €150 million offer
for the 26-year-old striker, who has scored 49 goals in 106 games since joining
Atlético from Manchester City in 2024, but Atlético pointed to his €500 million
release clause and added a postscript jab: 'Let's see if you stop stealing
players from our Academy.'
The dig referenced Real's recent signings like
Jesús Fortea, a 19-year-old right-back who left Atlético's youth setup in 2022,
amid a broken 'non-aggression pact' between the clubs.
Real fans countered with lists of Atlético stars
like Álvaro Morata and Koke who came from their academy, turning the rejection
into classic Madrid derby banter.