Arsenal’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez has received a potential boost with reports from Spain indicating Atletico Madrid are considering Victor Osimhen as a replacement should the Argentinian forward depart. The news comes as the Gunners prepare to actively strengthen their squad following a Premier League title win and a narrow defeat in the Champions League final.
Arsenal are reportedly interested in several attacking options, including Alvarez, alongside Eli Junior Kroupi of Bournemouth and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, according to BBC Sport. However, they face competition from Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain for Alvarez’s signature, with Barcelona allegedly prepared to offer €100 million (£86m) for the player, as reported by The Athletic.
Atletico Madrid have publicly dismissed speculation surrounding Alvarez, particularly aimed at Barcelona, even posting a satirical offer on social media involving sunflower seeds and concert tickets in exchange for Lamine Yamal. Despite this public stance, Diario AS reports that Atletico are proactively exploring replacements, identifying Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen as a prime target.
Galatasaray’s Osimhen is valued at €75 million (£64.8m) and has a proven track record in Europe, scoring 59 goals in 74 games for the Turkish club. Prior to his move to Turkey, the 27-year-old Nigerian international found the net 76 times in 133 appearances for Napoli, playing a crucial role in their Serie A title win in the 2022-23 season.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has urged the club’s board to be “very ambitious” in the upcoming transfer window, following their Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain. The defeat, decided by a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, highlighted the need for further squad investment. Arteta has also indicated the club is evaluating midfield options, including Sandro Tonali of Newcastle United, Mateus Fernandes of West Ham United, and Ayyoub Bouaddi of Lille, as reported by The Times. The potential arrival of Alvarez would add further firepower to an already potent Arsenal attack.
