Arsenal have been linked with a big-money move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez in the summer transfer window, but Chelsea want him too
Arsenal are competing on four fronts with the possibility of securing an unprecedented Quadruple this season.
The Gunners, who this week reached the Carabao Cup final, currently hold a six-point lead in the Premier League and topped their Champions League group, while they remain on track in the FA Cup too, meaning Mikel Arteta’s men could make history this season. Meanwhile, the club’s recruitment team are already gearing up for the upcoming summer transfer window.
In the January window, manager Arteta chose not to make any major signings, given the squad’s existing depth. However, the North London giants did sign some promising young players on deadline day and have already been linked to a high-profile summer signing. Here’s all the latest news from the Emirates.
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Obstacle in Julian Alvarez pursuit
Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, 26, has been linked to a potential summer transfer to Arsenal, with a reported valuation of around £87million, reports the Mirror.
According to Spanish publication Sport, both Arsenal and Chelsea are “pushing hard” to sign the Argentina international. It’s claimed the English clubs are “prepared to break the bank” for Alvarez, who has scored 40 goals in 88 games for Atletico.
However, the report suggests Barcelona is Alvarez’s preferred destination. While he may need convincing to return to England, Barcelona’s financial difficulties could work in Arsenal’s favour.
Barcelona are reportedly balking at Atleti’s price tag for their star striker. The reigning La Liga champs are bracing themselves for a tricky transfer window this summer, with seasoned forward Robert Lewandowski’s contract ticking down.
Manager’s cheeky ‘swap’ request
Arsenal sealed the deal for St Mirren’s young talent Evan Mooney on deadline day. The 18-year-old midfielder joined the Gunners alongside Stoke City’s promising Jaden Dixon.
The winger made his move to Arsenal permanent in a deal peppered with add-ons and sell-on clauses for the Scottish side. Mooney clocked up 23 first team appearances for St Mirren and manager Stephen Robinson had a laugh saying he asked for Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes as part of a swap deal for the youngster.
“A terrific move for Evan. I have to give Keith Lasley [St Mirren COO] a special mention as well,” Robinson quipped during a press conference.
“I think he’s negotiated an incredible deal for the football club because the initial offer was to take him on loan with a view to a permanent. I was looking for Gabriel [Magalhaes] in return because he is a first-team player for us. I was hoping we would get Gabriel, but it didn’t quite materialise.”