Arsenal and Chelsea are both battling it out for Julian Alvarez’s signature.
Chelsea have taken their first step towards signing Julian Alvarez, it is reported – while Arsenal and Barcelona are also chasing the Atlético Madrid striker.
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Alvarez has made no secret of the fact that he wants to leave Atlético in the summer. The Argentine wants to join a club that can win league titles and the Champions League – which in turn will strengthen his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.
On Sunday, Alvarez returned to the Metropolitano stadium, where he was greeted by a booing concert from the Atlético supporters.
Ideally, Alvarez wants to go to Barça. Hansi Flick & Co. had a bid of €100 million rejected earlier this summer, and they will struggle to meet the price tag – which is supposed to be €200 million.
Arsenal and Chelsea are lurking in the background, should Alvarez warm up to the idea of a Premier League return.
According to Italian transfer reporter Nico Schira, Chelsea have started the process of signing the 26-year-old – by contacting Atlético.
Schira first wrote on social media:
“Julian Alvarez has a deal with Barça and is pushing to leave Atlético Madrid – who will not sell him to FC Barcelona. After Arsenal, Chelsea have also shown interest in the Argentine striker.”
Schira added:
“Chelsea explored the terms of a possible Julian Alvarez deal last Thursday, during their meeting in London with Atlético Madrid – when Atlético opened talks to try to sign Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea. Aston Villa are also working to sign Jackson.”
Chelsea could take advantage of Atlético’s interest in Jackson to try and secure Alvarez for a better price. The Blues value Jackson at €65 million.
Such a transfer would immediately give Atlético a new nine – even if the Senegalese is a long way from Alvarez’s level.
The race to bring Alvarez back to England is escalating. We revealed on Monday morning that Arsenal are “ready to break the bank” to sign him.
The Gunners could make a bid of €150 million (about 1.28 billion kroner) if Alvarez makes it clear that he is willing to consider other options than Barça.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Arsenal have the means to complete a sensational deal for the player.
“And don’t forget Arsenal,” he said. “Because my understanding, which I have mentioned in several videos and repeat today, is that Arsenal internally believe they can afford a deal for Julian Alvarez.
Chelsea and Arsenal in duel for Julian Alvarez
“Especially if Gabriel Martinelli goes to Al-Hilal – and that deal is ongoing. The player is open to joining Al-Hilal. So Martinelli to Al-Hilal is possible.
“If Martinelli goes to Al-Hilal, it gives extra money to Arsenal. And then Arsenal have the financial opportunity to complete a deal for Julian Alvarez. That’s the feeling in the club.
“Even though the price is high, they believe they can come to an agreement with Atlético Madrid. The question is the player.
“The player has until today never opened the door for Arsenal. But Arsenal are still there, and are following the situation. If Julian changes his mind and decides to open the door for England – and for Arsenal – then Arsenal will still be there, watching.
“So keep an eye on Arsenal and Julian throughout the summer transfer window, if the player changes position.
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The first round of the Premier League season ended yesterday Monday with a match at Craven Cottage, where Fulham hosted Chelea.
