Arsenal pursue Julian Alvarez as Tottenham captain Cristian Romero could depart

By Ama Serwah — 15 July 2026 — 3 min read

Arsenal’s Pursuit of Julian Alvarez

Arsenal are actively working to secure a deal for Atletico Madrid’s forward Julian Alvarez before the pre-season period commences. The club views Alvarez as a primary attacking target, with manager Mikel Arteta having a long-standing interest in the player. This intensified focus on Alvarez comes as other potential targets, such as Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola, are reportedly unavailable for transfer. While PSG had previously shown interest in Alvarez, it appears their engagement was more exploratory as they assess various options for their squad.

The pursuit of Alvarez has involved complex negotiations, particularly concerning the transfer fee. Atletico Madrid is reportedly seeking a figure exceeding £100m, while Arsenal has been hesitant to go above £90m. Adding another layer to these discussions is the involvement of Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta, who is negotiating with his former club, Atletico Madrid. Despite the financial and political complexities, Arsenal remains hopeful of finalising the transfer.

Alvarez, an Argentina international, recently scored a crucial extra-time winner for his national team in their 3-1 victory over Switzerland. This performance occurred during a period where options for the player seemed to have diminished due to various political factors. Although Alvarez is open to a move to Arsenal, his initial preference was to remain in Spain, potentially with either Barcelona or Real Madrid. However, Atletico Madrid has been firm in its stance against selling the player to either of its direct rivals, a position that has been reflected in public statements and social media activity.

Julian Alvarez celebrates scoring for Argentina Credit: independent.co.uk

Barcelona is also expected to resume its interest in Alvarez following the conclusion of the World Cup. Reports suggest that Barcelona might consider including one of their own players as part of a potential deal for the forward. This indicates a competitive landscape for securing Alvarez’s services, with multiple top European clubs vying for his signature.

Other Notable Transfer Developments

In other transfer news, Tottenham captain Cristian Romero is reportedly set to leave the club this summer. The Argentina defender, who is 28, has attracted interest from Barcelona. His potential departure marks a significant development for the North London club.

Liverpool has made renewed contact with Paris Saint-Germain regarding a possible summer transfer for France forward Bradley Barcola, who is 23. This interest from Liverpool highlights their ongoing efforts to strengthen their squad. However, Liverpool has also dismissed a recent approach for midfielder Curtis Jones. Inter Milan’s improved bid for the 25-year-old England international reportedly fell short of Liverpool’s asking price.

Meanwhile, Arsenal has explored the possibility of including Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres, 28, as a makeweight in a deal to bring Julian Alvarez to the club. This strategy suggests Arsenal’s willingness to be creative in their transfer negotiations to secure their primary targets.

Barcelona is also looking to address its squad composition. The club intends to offer Spain forward Ferran Torres, 26, a new contract amidst interest from Paris Saint-Germain. However, due to financial regulations, Barcelona plans to defer this until September. This strategic delay underscores the financial considerations influencing transfer activities at the club.

Elsewhere, Arsenal is reportedly attempting to sell Brazil forward Gabriel Jesus, with AC Milan identified as one of the leading contenders to sign the 29-year-old. This potential move could see a significant change in Arsenal’s attacking lineup. Sunderland is also close to finalising the signing of Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier, 34, following his departure from Lille. This acquisition could bolster Sunderland’s defensive options.

Everton has intensified its long-standing interest in Genoa’s England Under-21 defender Brooke Norton-Cuffy, 22, with recent discussions taking place regarding a potential transfer. This indicates Everton’s commitment to securing young talent for their future squad. Additionally, Crysencio Summerville’s agents have met with Roma concerning the Netherlands forward, 24, potentially joining them from West Ham. This meeting suggests a possible move for the player. Finally, USA goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina, 22, is currently on trial with Strasbourg, with a view to a move from Chelsea.