Barcelona have withdrawn from the pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez due to the Spanish club’s €150 million valuation, according to a report in Sport. This development leaves Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain as the leading contenders for the Argentina international.
Atletico are reportedly reluctant to sell Alvarez, but would consider offers matching their substantial asking price. Arsenal and PSG have already initiated preliminary discussions with Alvarez’s representatives, with the player reportedly seeking a departure after two seasons without silverware with Atletico. Alvarez has established himself as a key player for Atletico, contributing consistently in La Liga, but appears open to a new challenge.
Meanwhile, West Ham United’s €100 million price tag for midfielder Mateus Fernandes has been met with skepticism from industry agents, as reported by Claret & Hugh. The club maintains its position as a “non-selling club,” aiming to retain the Portuguese international despite interest from Arsenal and Manchester United. However, insiders believe that no club will meet West Ham’s valuation, particularly if the club suffers relegation.
Fernandes has been a standout performer for West Ham during a difficult season, attracting attention from top clubs with his dynamic midfield play. Arsenal and Manchester United are both monitoring his situation, potentially looking to bolster their midfield options in the summer transfer window.
Porto midfielder Victor Froholdt has publicly stated his desire to remain with the Portuguese club, dismissing recent transfer links with Arsenal and Chelsea. Speaking to A Bola, the Denmark international expressed his commitment to Porto, particularly his ambition to compete in the UEFA Champions League with the club. He stated, “What I want is to stay here…I love being here.” Porto are believed to value Froholdt at around €65 million. His recent success in winning the Primeira Liga with Porto suggests he is settled and focused on continuing his development in Portugal.
These developments indicate a busy summer ahead for Arsenal as they seek to strengthen their squad under manager Mikel Arteta, while West Ham face a potentially challenging period both on and off the pitch.
