Julian Alvarez continues to be a player Arsenal are monitoring as the summer transfer window nears its conclusion, with less than two weeks left before the September 1 deadline at 11pm.
The 24-year-old was absent from Atletico Madrid’s opening La Liga fixture against Malaga on Thursday evening, which ended in a 2-0 victory. Head coach Diego Simeone confirmed in his pre-match media address that the Argentina international was not in condition to play in this match.
Real Madrid and Barcelona have also been mentioned as potential destinations for Alvarez since the conclusion of the previous campaign. Here is a summary of recent developments…
Alvarez open to Arsenal
Spanish sports reporter Pedro Morata reports that Alvarez will make a decision on Friday regarding whether to hold talks with Arsenal or remain at Atletico. The north London club are said to have tabled an offer totalling £107million, though Atletico are seeking £129million.
The former Manchester City player is apparently willing to move to Arsenal despite harbouring reservations and an apparent reluctance to return to England.
Morata indicates the likelihood stands at 55 percent for him staying put, with the remaining 45 percent reflecting his receptiveness to joining the Premier League side. Barcelona are said to have withdrawn from the race.
Arsenal meet Atletico director of football
Atletico’s director of football Mateu Alemany held discussions with Arsenal in the capital regarding the terms of a potential deal for Alvarez, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Gunners are understood to have made an approach, though the valuation is reportedly prohibitive at this stage, and Alvarez has never been inclined towards a return to England as his preference remains Barcelona.
Alemany is also said to have discussed Nicolas Jackson during his visit, who could serve as a possible successor for the Argentine. Aston Villa have also been mentioned as potential suitors for the Chelsea forward.
Jackson spent the previous campaign on loan at Bayern Munich, having previously turned out for Villarreal in Spain’s top flight.
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Barcelona reach striker agreement
Lautaro Martinez’s representative, Alejandro Camano, tentatively agreed terms with Barcelona regarding his client’s potential contract, according to El Chiringuito. The meeting reportedly took place in Madrid the previous week with football co-ordinator Bojan and sporting director Deco.
Both Deco and head coach Hansi Flick are understood to be highly interested in the Argentina international. Barcelona are reportedly formulating an initial bid for the Inter captain that will not surpass £86million.
Inter, however, have no intention of permitting their skipper to depart this summer. Per La Gazzetta dello Sport, no proposal will alter their stance.
Atletico U-Turn
Mundo Deportivo report Atletico are prepared to commence negotiations with Arsenal over Alvarez, though not with Barcelona. These accounts contradict Morata’s version, with the Catalan newspaper asserting the striker has allegedly rejected any switch to north London.
They are apparently willing to conduct business with Arsenal as they covet Viktor Gyokeres as a replacement for the Argentine. Atletico are said to recognise the situation with Alvarez is becoming untenable, hence this shift in their position.
MD nevertheless insist he continues to block any transfer that does not lead to Barcelona. They maintain he remains their preferred destination.