Julián Álvarez was absent from Atlético Madrid's training session on Friday for the second time in recent days, with the club citing illness as the reason — all while speculation over his future continues to swirl.

The Argentine forward has been linked with a departure from Atlético Madrid, and his repeated absences from the training ground have done little to quiet the transfer rumours surrounding him.

No further details were provided by the club regarding the nature of his illness or a projected return date to full training.