A transfer saga that characterized the entire summer is set to flare up again when the January transfer window opens. Barcelona are likely to test their luck again – while Arsenal are willing to go to extraordinary lengths to capture the Argentine.
Julian Alvarez’s future was one of football’s most intense summer questions. Despite frantic bidding rounds and desperate attempts at persuasion, it all ended with him staying at Atlético Madrid. But the story is far from over.
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Barcelona chased – but hit a blank wall
Barcelona and Arsenal stood as the two hottest candidates. The Catalans made a bid of a staggering €100 million (approximately £86 million), while Arsenal signalled that they were ready to go all the way to £128 million to secure their signature.
The problem? Alvarez only had eyes for Barcelona. He personally turned down Mikel Arteta and turned down a possible stay in North London. Atlético, on the other hand, flatly refused to sell to Barcelona – and thus all cards were on the table.
Why January could be different
According to Pol Ballus, Barcelona’s expert in The Athletic, there is little to indicate that the situation has been settled for good:
“It won’t surprise me if Barca test Atlético and Alvarez again in January. The striker has shown an incredible dedication to the club – ever since he stated during the World Cup that he wanted to leave. In the dressing room, there is a clear perception that Alvarez is the right character and the perfect match for them,” says Ballus.
The question is whether Atlético’s attitude has changed. So far, they have given zero indication that they are willing to sell.
Arsenal’s secret weapon
While Barcelona are hoping for a second chance, Arsenal have taken matters into their own hands – with a move that testifies to desperation and will.
TEAMtalk’s transfer insider Graeme Bailey reveals that Arsenal are willing to move Alvarez’s entire extended family from Madrid to London. That includes everything from visa processes to housing and practical arrangements – all to make the transfer so appealing that the Argentine changes his mind.
But it doesn’t stop there. Arsenal are also said to be open to incorporating a so-called “Barcelona clause” into the deal – a clause that gives Alvarez the opportunity to realize his dream transfer to Camp Nou at a later date. Of course, with terms that safeguard Arsenal’s own interests, both time and financial.
What happens now?
With Barcelona on the lookout and Arsenal ready to do everything in their power, only one question remains: Will Álvarez finally get the transfer he’s been fighting for – or will it be another round of painful waiting? January could be the month that decides everything.
