Arsenal will need to shatter their club transfer record if they are to sign striker Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid this summer, according to reports. Journalist Ben Jacobs states that the Spanish club has set an asking price of at least €120 million for the Argentine international, a figure that would eclipse the €116.6 million paid for Declan Rice in 2023. Atletico's valuation is understood to be tied to their own club-record sale of Antoine Griezmann to Barcelona in 2019.
The 26-year-old Alvarez, who joined Atletico from Manchester City in 2024, has established himself as a key figure in Diego Simeone's attack. While Barcelona have also been linked with the forward, there is reportedly an acceptance at Camp Nou that financing such a deal would be extremely difficult, potentially leaving the path clearer for Premier League suitors. Arsenal's interest comes as Mikel Arteta seeks a long-term, prolific centre-forward to lead his line.
In other transfer news, Arsenal scouts were reportedly left in awe by the performance of Ajax winger Mika Godts. According to TEAMtalk, Gunners officials watched the 20-year-old Belgian, dubbed the "new Eden Hazard" for his dribbling prowess, score a sensational solo goal against NAC Breda at the weekend. Arsenal have been monitoring Godts for several months and are expected to face competition for his signature, with Ajax anticipating a summer sale.
Meanwhile, the club continues to track the situation of Atalanta midfielder Ederson, though Manchester United are said to have taken a more active role. Jacobs reports that United have "made contact" with the Brazilian's camp, while Arsenal remain in a watching brief. Ederson has previously agreed personal terms with Atletico Madrid, but the La Liga side's pursuit has stalled, leading them to consider alternatives like Wolves' Joao Gomes.
On the outgoing front, Ethan Nwaneri's difficult loan spell at Marseille has intensified speculation about his Arsenal future. The 19-year-old midfielder was an unused substitute against Nice, the third time in seven games under coach Habib Beye. Ahead of the match, Beye publicly questioned Nwaneri's commitment, echoing earlier French media criticism of the player's perceived nonchalance. His lack of playing time has prompted rumours that Arsenal could consider a permanent sale this summer.
Separately, data analysis from SciSports, cited by Calciomercato, suggests Arsenal should explore a move for Tijjani Reijnders. The Dutch midfielder, who joined Manchester City from AC Milan last summer, has seen his playing time diminish significantly after a strong start, potentially making him available for transfer. Any movement in these various pursuits is likely to be dictated by Arsenal's success or failure in their primary objective of signing a striker like Julian Alvarez, a deal that would require unprecedented financial commitment from the North London club.
