Julian Alvarez, the Atletico Madrid striker, has reportedly not attended club training sessions after being informed that a transfer to Barcelona would not be permitted. Sources indicate that Atletico privately communicated to Alvarez and his representatives earlier this week that they would not engage in negotiations with the Catalan club for the Argentina international. This development suggests that a move to Arsenal is now the primary potential exit for the player.
The 26-year-old forward has missed two consecutive days of training, citing illness. In response to ongoing speculation, Atletico Madrid issued two public statements within a 24-hour period, reaffirming their position that Alvarez would not be allowed to join Barcelona in the immediate future. One statement from Atletico explicitly stated, “There is 0% chance of selling him to Barca.” The club’s board of directors further solidified this stance, unanimously supporting the decision not to negotiate Alvarez’s transfer to FC Barcelona.
Atletico’s Stance and Arsenal’s Pursuit
Despite their firm refusal to deal with Barcelona, Atletico Madrid is reportedly open to selling Alvarez to Arsenal. Direct discussions have taken place between Atletico and the Premier League champions regarding what could be a significant transfer this summer. Atletico director Mateu Alemany was in London last week, where he is understood to have met with Arsenal counterparts. During these meetings, it was made clear that Atletico would seek a fee of 150m Euros (£128m) for the player.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, is reportedly keen to sign Alvarez this month. However, the player’s strong desire to join Barcelona has reportedly paused Arsenal’s pursuit. Nevertheless, discussions between Atletico and Arsenal concerning a club-to-club agreement for Alvarez have been described as positive. Should Alvarez signal his willingness to proceed with a move to Arsenal in the coming days, a deal is expected to progress rapidly.
Reports suggest that Arsenal has received a ‘green light’ to sign Alvarez for £111m. This comes as Atletico boss Diego Simeone has reportedly given approval for the club to sell Alvarez, with a move to Barcelona remaining off the table. One report claims Atletico would accept 130 million euros (£111m) for Alvarez. The report emphasized that Barcelona is out of contention, significantly reducing Alvarez’s options.
Potential Player Movement and Financial Context
Arsenal has been active in the transfer market this summer, having already spent over £200m on new signings, including Bruno Guimaraes, Ezri Konsa, Piero Hincapie, Christos Tzolis, and Illan Meslier. These acquisitions aim to strengthen the squad, and the club is reportedly still seeking further recruits, particularly attacking reinforcements such as a left-winger or a striker. Alvarez, who developed into a prominent striker after moving from Manchester City to Atletico Madrid, has been a key target for Barcelona to replace Roberto Lewandowski.
While Alvarez reportedly wishes to join the Spanish giants, Atletico Madrid has consistently stated throughout the transfer window that they do not intend to sell him to a direct rival. This situation has reportedly created an opportunity for Arsenal, with some reports indicating they are now Alvarez’s ‘only option’. However, any move is contingent on Alvarez expressing a willingness to join Arsenal over Barcelona.
In addition to potential incoming transfers, Arsenal’s financial position could be boosted by player exits. Journalist Nicolo Schira has reported that Gabriel Martinelli is nearing a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal for €60M. The proposed contract for Martinelli is until 2030, with an annual salary of €20M. All parties involved in this potential deal are reportedly confident of its completion.
Spanish reports have also suggested that a swap deal involving Viktor Gyokeres could be a possibility for Arsenal. These reports claim that Arsenal possesses the €150m required and a bargaining chip in Gyokeres. An agreement between the clubs is said to exist, with only the player’s agreement remaining.
The situation hinges on Julian Alvarez’s decision to accept a move to Arsenal, as Atletico Madrid remains steadfast in its refusal to negotiate with Barcelona.
Source: bbc.co.uk
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