Paris Saint-Germain have begun discussions with Atlético Madrid regarding a potential transfer for forward Julián Alvarez, presenting a significant challenge to Arsenal’s pursuit of the player. The French champions are reportedly prepared to offer between €140-150 million for Alvarez, potentially exceeding Arsenal’s financial capabilities.
Alvarez has been a key target for Arsenal this summer, with Atlético Madrid anticipated to demand around €100 million for their star striker. However, AS in Spain reports that PSG manager Luis Enrique is strongly advocating for Alvarez’s signing, initiating movement to secure his services. The club believes its financial power will allow it to outbid Arsenal for the Argentine.
Elsewhere, Arsenal’s interest in West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes has emerged, though Manchester United are currently considered frontrunners for the 21-year-old. Fernandes has been nominated for the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season award following an impressive debut campaign for the Hammers. Both United and Arsenal are reportedly ‘very keen’ on the player, but United have already made contact with Fernandes’ representatives, according to TEAMtalk.
Arsenal are also facing competition from Manchester United for Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand. The Danish international is valued at around €40 million and is reportedly open to leaving Sporting. Interestingly, Hjulmand has a tattoo of the Arsenal crest on his shoulder, potentially indicating a preference for a move to the Emirates Stadium. However, both Manchester clubs are also monitoring the situation.
In a separate development, Bournemouth have ruled out the sale of forward Eli Junior Kroupi this summer. Cherries’ Head of Football Operations Tiago Pinto stated emphatically that the 19-year-old will not be leaving the club, despite interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal. Pinto confirmed Kroupi’s contract contains no release clause and the club would not consider offers even up to €100 million.
