Arsenal’s interest in Julian Alvarez has waned somewhat after a poor World Cup for Argentina, where there was no showing of class. – Moreover, Atletico Madrid will not sell unless unbelievable sums are put on the table.
One dream stands in the way
Arsenal are confident that they will reach an agreement to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, but the Argentine’s heart still belongs to Barcelona. – Julian Alvarez came on a transfer from Manchester City two years ago on a deal worth €75 million.
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The north London club are still very interested in the 25-year-old, and according to TEAMtalk, they are ready to act as soon as Alvarez signals that he wants the transfer. – Arsenal have positioned themselves to act immediately if Alvarez decides to leave Atletico Madrid. Sports director Andrea Berta keeps in regular contact with the Argentine international’s representatives.
What makes this case extra exciting is that Arsenal’s plans for Alvarez are completely separate from the rest of the summer transfer budget. That means a transfer for the former Manchester City striker won’t stop the club from chasing another big attacking signing.
Arsenal are even willing to break the British transfer record if it proves necessary to secure the signing.
Internally in the club, however, there is a strong belief that a possible deal will be completed far below record levels. Sources indicate that Atletico Madrid are unlikely to demand a record amount if the player himself decides that he wants to join Arsenal.
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The decision now rests solely on Alvarez.
Can Arsenal convince him to give up on his Barcelona dream?
Ever since the start, Alvarez has made it crystal clear that Barcelona is his preferred destination. As things stand, he is still waiting to find out if the Catalan giants can reach an agreement with Atletico Madrid.
TEAMtalk understands that Berta has once again spoken to Alvarez’s camp to reiterate Arsenal’s position. He has made it clear that the club is ready to act as soon as they get the green light from the player.
Arsenal are confident that they can agree personal terms, and sources stress that negotiations with Atletico will not pose a major obstacle if Alvarez chooses Arsenal as his next destination.
Barcelona, on the other hand, are still locked in talks with Atletico in an attempt to find a breakthrough.
Atletico will not strengthen Barcelona or Real Madrid
There have been fresh discussions in recent days, but TEAMtalk understands that Atletico Madrid’s management is still very determined that they will not strengthen either Barcelona or arch-rivals Real Madrid during the summer.
This attitude has only boosted Arsenal’s confidence. If Alvarez opens the door to a move to the Premier League, they are convinced that they are in an exceptionally good position to complete the deal.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta reportedly wants clarity before the end of the month – a desire shared by Alvarez’s representatives, who are eager to have his future decided as quickly as possible.
TEAMtalk can also reveal that Atletico have already started considering possible replacements.
Atletico interested in Viktor Gyökeres
Among the names that have been discussed, we find Arsenal’s own Viktor Gyökeres. The Spanish big club has already investigated the Swede’s situation.
However, TEAMtalk understands that Arsenal are far from convinced that they will let go of Gyökeres. Although the possibility of including him in negotiations has naturally been discussed, sources believe that Arsenal believe the Swede still has a lot to contribute after his first full season in north London. They are therefore reluctant to approve a sale.
Arsenal would prefer that Atletico consider either Gabriel Jesus or Gabriel Martinelli as part of any discussions, but these talks are taking place regardless of the pursuit of Alvarez.
