Arsenal Submit Contract Offer for Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez
Arsenal have submitted an opening contract offer to Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, according to reports. The Premier League club are exploring a major move for the 26-year-old Argentine forward as they look to strengthen their attack this summer.
According to a report from Media Foot, the Gunners have made an initial contract proposal to the player's representatives, aiming to secure personal terms before engaging with Atletico Madrid. The Spanish club, however, have repeatedly stated they have no intention of selling the player this summer. It is believed a fee in the region of €150 million would be required to even begin negotiations for the 26-year-old.
The move for Alvarez is reportedly contingent on a major sale from Arsenal's current forward line. According to BBC Sport, a deal for the Argentine would likely only proceed if a current forward is sold, with Kai Havertz a potential candidate to be sacrificed to facilitate the move. The report suggests that, of Arsenal's current attacking options, Havertz would be the most likely to make way, as Viktor Gyokeres only joined the club last summer and has performed well in his debut season.
Alvarez has been a key figure for Atletico Madrid since his move from Manchester City in 2024. The Argentina international has scored 18 goals and provided nine assists in 45 games across all competitions this season, establishing himself as a key figure for Diego Simeone's side. His performances have also made him a regular for the Argentina national team, following his breakout at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
The potential transfer is complicated by the interest of other clubs, most notably Barcelona, who are also seeking a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. However, Arsenal's early move to secure an agreement with the player could give them a significant advantage. The Gunners' hierarchy, led by manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu, have identified Alvarez as a top target to bolster their attacking options as they aim to challenge for the Premier League title next season. The club's willingness to sanction a club-record fee and wage package for a 26-year-old with proven quality at the highest level signals their ambition to compete for the game's biggest prizes.
