Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, with the Argentine forward open to leaving the club. The 26-year-old has been booed by Atletico fans during their season opener against Villarreal, adding to speculation about his future.
Atletico Madrid have agreed a deal with Juventus for Jonathan David on loan, which may influence their willingness to sell Alvarez, according to The Sun. Arsenal are said to be monitoring several options and have reportedly reached out to Alvarez’s representatives, according to a report from CBS Sports.
The Gunners are considering a £128 million fee for Iliman Ndiaye, according to reports from The Athletic. Mikel Arteta has expressed satisfaction with his current squad but is open to further strengthening before the transfer window closes.
Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit believes that adding at least two or three new players would help the team achieve success. The club is also reportedly considering other attacking additions, including James Scanlon and Habeeb Ogunneye for the first team.
Barcelona have made their pursuit of Alvarez public, but Atletico’s CEO has stated they will not sell to their La Liga rivals, The Guardian reported. Alvarez is currently sidelined with an illness but has been working on a move to Barcelona despite Atletico’s resistance.
The situation remains uncertain as the transfer window nears its end, with no decision expected until close to the deadline. Arsenal have also signed Christos Tzolis and are preparing for Martinelli’s departure to Al-Hilal, which could open a spot in the squad.
Martinelli, who scored six times in the Champions League last season, is due to have his medical after being left out of Arsenal’s opening match. Despite his interest in leaving Atletico, Alvarez has reportedly spoken with Arteta and expressed hesitation about joining Arsenal.
Arsenal’s chief executive Richard Garlick has hinted that one more signing could be made before the window shuts next Tuesday. The club is also keeping an eye on other potential targets, including Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye, who Tottenham are in advanced talks with.
With the Champions League season approaching, Atletico’s decision to keep Alvarez or let him go could affect his future. Alvarez’s performance in the Champions League last season showed his potential as a creative player who could strengthen Arsenal’s attack.
If he stays at Atletico, the club may still consider selling him before the end of the transfer window. The decision on Alvarez’s future could come down to a final clash between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid over his transfer rights.
IMAGE: Tokyo National Stadium. Photo: pantkiewicz / Wikimedia, taken 2023-07-23, CC BY-SA 2.0