WATCH: Julian Alvarez Ignores Atlético Fans After Loud Boos During La Liga Clash Over Transfer Speculation

Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez was booed by his own fans amid growing transfer speculation as his side drew with Villarreal in La Liga. His name was loudly whistled when it was announced among Atlético's substitutes before the match. The hostile reaction continued when he came on in the 66th minute.

At full-time, Álvarez appeared to ignore the Atlético supporters. While his teammates stayed on the pitch to applaud the home fans, the Argentine walked alone towards the tunnel. More whistles followed him as he left the field. The striking visual of the forward walking down alone towards the tunnel while the squad were serenaded by the fans has since gone viral on social media.

Why did the fans boo Alvarez?

Álvarez's future has become a major talking point after he said during the World Cup that he wanted to leave Atlético to "fulfil my dream". The forward was linked with a switch to La Liga rivals Barcelona. Reports suggest Barcelona have pursued the Argentine, while Atlético have accused the Catalan club of trying to influence the player and have publicly criticised the way the transfer approach has been handled.

Simeone later played down the significance of Álvarez's decision to leave the pitch alone. The Atlético boss suggested it had been a pre-agreed club decision for the forward to head straight to the dressing room at full-time rather than join his teammates in applauding the fans. That explanation appeared to ease suggestions that Álvarez had deliberately snubbed the supporters following the boos.

Has Alvarez played his last game for Atletico?

It looks likely given how the fans treated the Argentine during the draw against Villarreal. Even as the fans were booing him, the Argentine seemed unaffected as he did when he walked towards the dressing room.

Atlético's stance has created a tense situation, with Álvarez wanting the move but the club reluctant to strengthen a domestic rival. Premier League champions Arsenal have also been linked with a move, and it remains to be seen whether they make a solid approach for him before the September 1 transfer deadline.