Arsenal have emerged as the most viable option to sign Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, according to a report from Cadena SER. The development comes amid a breakdown in negotiations between Álvarez’s current club and Barcelona, who recently had a €100 million bid rejected. Atlético Madrid responded to the bid with a strongly worded statement on social media, effectively ending discussions between the two Spanish clubs for the foreseeable future.
Álvarez, who won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022, has reportedly become frustrated with Atlético’s inability to consistently compete for major trophies. Several clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain, have shown interest in the 26-year-old, with contact dating back to January. However, the fractured relationship between Atlético and Barcelona has significantly altered the landscape of the transfer.
Barcelona had been Álvarez’s preferred destination, but the player is not expected to force a move away from the Spanish capital despite his desire to join the Catalan club. Atlético Madrid are currently attempting to build a squad capable of challenging for silverware next season and view Álvarez as a key component of their plans. They are actively pursuing other transfers with this goal in mind.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are seeking to strengthen their attacking options following the arrival of Viktor Gyokeres last year. While Gyokeres had a mixed first season with the Gunners, the club intends to deploy Álvarez on the left wing, rather than as a direct replacement. Despite Arsenal’s strong interest, a major obstacle remains: Álvarez is reportedly unwilling to return to England, having previously played for Manchester City. Intermediaries involved in the potential deal have indicated the situation is “very complicated” and that Álvarez is most likely to remain at Atlético Madrid for the upcoming season.
