Arsenal are targeting Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez before the transfer window closes, with the Gunners reportedly holding an advantage in the race
It has already been a hectic summer at the Emirates this summer but Arsenal’s activity could be about to intensify dramatically with time running out before Transfer Deadline Day.
The Gunners have limited time remaining to bolster their squad before the transfer window shuts at 11pm on September 1. Of all Arsenal’s transactions this summer, their persistent pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez has spanned the window.
Arsenal have already lost out on Morgan Rogers, who opted for Chelsea, and Vinicius Junior, who pledged his future to Real Madrid, making the Argentine a key target. Daily Star Sport looks at two developments regarding Alvarez, including a potential blockbuster swap deal.
Julian Alvarez statement
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Atletico Madrid have released a forcefully-worded statement responding to speculation linking Barcelona with a move for Alvarez, categorically declaring their prized asset will not be departing for the Camp Nou this summer.
The 26-year-old is believed to prefer a move to Barcelona. However, in a statement, Atletico declared: “There is a 0% chance of selling Julian Alvarez to Barcelona. The player is being portrayed as the victim, but the only victims of the Julian saga are us. This is about dignity.”
Atleti were held to a 2-2 stalemate with Villarreal on Sunday, with the striker booed by his own fans. The sight of Alvarez keeping his distance from his teammates as they saluted the Atletico faithful has only fuelled the mounting transfer speculation surrounding the Argentine.
Diego Simeone disclosed that both Alvarez and the club had reached a mutual understanding that he should refrain from interacting with supporters within the stadium while the matter remains unsettled.
Exchange deal
While Alvarez is understood to have his sights set on a switch to Barca, he is also said to be open to the idea of joining Arsenal. According to the Independent, Atletico are eager for the issue to be settled one way or another by Friday, reports Football London.
The same report suggests the Gunners could possess a clear edge given they have two players who “appeal” to Atletico in Gabriel Jesus and Viktor Gyokeres. It is claimed that one – or possibly both – could be included as part of an exchange deal, alongside a cash fee.
It remains uncertain how Arsenal would respond if faced with such a proposal, though they did indicate earlier in the summer that Gyokeres was firmly in their thinking for this season. Indeed, he appeared from the bench in the Community Shield victory over Man City.
Nevertheless, with the transfer window deadline now rapidly approaching, it could be a matter of keeping a close eye on developments if they are determined to land a deal for Alvarez.