Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain have been informed that Julian Alvarez’s representatives are now solely focused on securing a transfer to Barcelona, according to a report from TEAMtalk. The Argentina international forward has been a target for both clubs this summer following a productive season with Atletico Madrid, where he has recorded 67 goal contributions in 106 appearances since joining from Manchester City in 2024 for a fee of €85 million.
Both Arsenal and PSG had been actively exploring a deal for Alvarez for months, and were encouraged by the player’s initial willingness to consider moves to either London or Paris. Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, was reportedly preparing a player-plus-cash offer involving either Gabriel Jesus or Gabriel Martinelli, while PSG considered including Goncalo Ramos in a potential package. However, Alvarez’s camp contacted both clubs within the last 48 hours to signal a shift in priorities.
Sources indicate that Alvarez’s preference has consistently been a move to Barcelona should he leave Atletico Madrid, and the Catalan club’s recent aggressive pursuit has significantly impressed the player. Barcelona have already secured Anthony Gordon and are prioritizing Alvarez as their next major signing. The 24-year-old has been encouraged by Barcelona’s determination to finalize a deal and appreciates the effort being invested in the transfer.
Atletico Madrid are reportedly demanding a fee of €135 million for Alvarez, but are bracing for increased pressure from the player to accept a lower offer. The club is reluctant to strengthen a direct LaLiga rival and initially preferred a sale outside of Spain. Alvarez is expected to publicly express his desire to join Barcelona through Argentine media ahead of joining up with his national team for the World Cup finals, further complicating matters for Arsenal and PSG.
While neither club has formally withdrawn their interest, TEAMtalk reports that both now recognize that a move to Barcelona is the most likely outcome unless unforeseen circumstances arise. Barcelona are also reportedly pursuing a loan deal for Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, but Alvarez remains their primary target.
