Arsenal are stepping up their pursuit of Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, with Mikel Arteta looking to seal his top attacking target before the start of pre-season, hoping to capitalize on Atletico’s firm refusal to sell the player to Barcelona.
Atletico have shut the door on any move to their La Liga rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid, after relations with Barcelona soured sharply over what the club’s hierarchy regarded as public “campaigns” aimed at influencing the player.
That stance has opened the door for Arsenal, with Atletico showing greater willingness to sell to a club outside Spain — particularly after a standout season for Alvarez, in which he made 49 appearances, scored 20 goals, and provided 9 assists. Paris Saint-Germain have also shown interest, though it has been viewed more as exploratory than a serious pursuit, leaving Arsenal as the clear frontrunners.
According to British newspaper The Independent, timing is a decisive factor for the Gunners, who want the deal done before training begins. At the same time, a valuation gap remains: Arsenal are unwilling to go beyond £90 million, while Atletico are holding out for a figure north of £100 million.
The negotiations are being led by the London club’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, a former Atletico man, who is hoping his existing relationships at the club will help close the deal soon.
It’s worth noting that Spanish media have reported Barcelona intend to submit a new offer for Alvarez worth up to €130 million — the maximum the Catalan club can currently afford.
