Arsenal are poised to make a move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez should the player indicate a desire to transfer, according to sources at TEAMtalk. The Gunners have reportedly established terms with Atletico and believe personal terms with Alvarez would not be a significant hurdle.
Sporting director Andrea Berta has been in consistent communication with Alvarez’s representatives, and Arsenal have positioned themselves to act swiftly if the Argentina international decides to leave Madrid. The club has made clear its willingness to move quickly, offering a financial package that is already in place.
TEAMtalk reports that Arsenal’s pursuit of Alvarez is independent of their overall summer transfer budget, meaning a deal for the former Manchester City forward would not preclude other attacking signings. The club is still considering options such as Athletic Club’s Nico Williams, RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande, and Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola, but remains prepared to make a substantial offer for Alvarez.
While Arsenal are prepared to potentially break the British transfer record to secure Alvarez, internal belief suggests a deal could be completed for less than that amount, with Atletico unlikely to demand a record fee if the player expresses a wish to depart. However, the ultimate decision rests with Alvarez himself, who currently favors a move to Barcelona.
Barcelona remain Alvarez’s preferred destination, and he is awaiting clarity on whether the Catalan club can reach an agreement with Atletico. Despite this, Arsenal are confident they can agree personal terms and navigate negotiations with Atletico should Alvarez reconsider his options. Discussions between Barcelona and Atletico have been ongoing, but Atletico’s hierarchy are reportedly reluctant to strengthen either Barcelona or Real Madrid.
Interestingly, Atletico Madrid have begun to explore potential replacements, with Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres among the names discussed. However, Arsenal are currently unwilling to allow Gyokeres to leave, believing he still has a significant role to play. They would potentially consider Gabriel Jesus or Gabriel Martinelli as part of any discussions with Atletico, though these conversations are separate from the pursuit of Alvarez.
For now, Arsenal are in a waiting game, maintaining regular contact with Alvarez’s camp and prepared to act immediately should he signal a willingness to move to the Premier League. The club remains confident that, if the opportunity arises, they are in a strong position to complete a significant transfer.
