A potential transfer of Julian Alvarez to Arsenal has gained significant traction this week, with developments surrounding Barcelona and Inter Milan potentially working in the North London club’s favour.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Lautaro Martinez could create a ripple effect that benefits Arsenal’s chances of signing Alvarez from Atletico Madrid. Inter Milan have shown interest in Gabriel Martinelli, with the Brazilian potentially viewed as Martinez’s replacement should the Argentine forward complete a move to the Catalan club, given Barcelona are unlikely to land Alvarez from the Spanish side.
The Gunners have emerged as strong contenders for Alvarez, though Barcelona had previously been his preferred destination. Atletico Madrid, under Diego Simeone, have no intention of selling to their La Liga rivals regardless of the player’s wishes regarding the switch.
Alvarez was absent from Atletico’s opening La Liga match this season after returning late from international duty following the World Cup. When questioned about the striker’s situation before the game, Simeone maintained the club’s stance that the player remains unavailable for transfer.
Reports indicate that Atletico’s director Mateu Alemany travelled to London for talks with Arsenal executives regarding a potential agreement for Alvarez. Sources suggest the Spanish club’s valuation exceeds what Arsenal consider reasonable, while Alvarez himself would favour a move to Barcelona. However, he has not ruled out joining the English side, and Barcelona’s exploration of alternative targets could enhance Arsenal’s prospects.
Martinez appears to be Barcelona’s primary Plan B, with El Chiringuito reporting that his agent Alejandro Camano had reached a preliminary contractual agreement with the Spanish club. Inter Milan have also identified Martinelli as a potential attacking recruit, and despite the Brazilian’s recent rejection of Galatasaray, he would reportedly be considerably more receptive to an offer from the Italian champions.
Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri were both omitted from Arsenal’s Community Shield squad amid uncertainty over their futures. Nwaneri has since been made available for a loan move rather than a permanent departure. Martinelli’s potential sale could generate significant funds for Arsenal, particularly given his homegrown status, while also providing resources to pursue a new forward – presenting what would amount to an ideal situation for the club.
Having failed to secure Vinicius Jr and Morgan Rogers, Alvarez appears to be Arsenal’s leading transfer target, with Bradley Barcola expected to favour a switch to Liverpool if he leaves Paris Saint-Germain.