Arsenal have emerged as the frontrunners to sign Atlético Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, with Barcelona and Real Madrid seemingly falling out of contention for the World Cup winner. The news comes as Alvarez seeks a departure from the Spanish capital, having scored 20 goals in 49 appearances for Diego Simeone’s side last season.
Real Madrid recently had a €150 million bid for Alvarez firmly rejected by Atlético, and the club has dismissed Barcelona’s ability to meet their valuation of the player. According to reports in AS, Arsenal are now the only club capable of securing a deal, possessing both the financial resources and the sporting interest to bring Alvarez to the Emirates Stadium.
Barcelona are reportedly unwilling to exceed a €100 million bid, viewing Real Madrid’s previous offer as a largely symbolic gesture. Alvarez currently holds an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €113 million, making any bid in that vicinity optimistic. Real Madrid, meanwhile, are prioritizing defensive reinforcements and are not expected to return with another offer for the Argentine in the immediate future.
Data analytics firm SciSports suggests that while Arsenal would represent a positive career move for Alvarez, a transfer to Real Madrid would be even more beneficial, scoring an impressive 84 on their Club Fit metric compared to Arsenal’s 75. However, this assessment precedes the imminent arrival of Jose Mourinho at the Bernabeu, potentially altering the club’s tactical approach. Barcelona, with a Club Fit score of just 61, are considered a less suitable destination.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano corroborated the reports, stating that Real Madrid have not followed up on their initial €150 million bid after Atlético Madrid’s public rejection. Romano emphasized that there has been no subsequent communication regarding a new proposal from Real Madrid, leaving Arsenal as the clear frontrunners. The situation remains fluid, but as of now, a move to Arsenal appears to be the most likely outcome for Alvarez.
