Arsenal have been given renewed hope in their pursuit of Julián Alvarez, with Atletico Madrid reportedly preferring to sell the Argentina international to the Premier League rather than allow him to join either Barcelona or Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old has emerged as one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards this summer, attracting interest from Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona as uncertainty over his future at Atletico continues.
Despite Arsenal’s determination to land the former Manchester City striker, sources indicate Alvarez has consistently told interested clubs that Barcelona remains his preferred destination. Sporting director Andrea Berta has held direct talks with the player’s camp, and while the Argentine is open to the idea of playing in the Premier League, his priority remains a move to Camp Nou.
That preference has complicated Arsenal’s pursuit, but it has not ended their interest.
The Gunners are understood to be in a strong position should Alvarez decide against waiting for Barcelona, with Atletico willing to negotiate a deal with the north London club. Crucially, the Spanish side are reluctant to strengthen either Barcelona or city rivals Real Madrid and would rather complete a sale abroad if Alvarez leaves this summer.
Paris Saint-Germain have also entered the race as they search for a replacement for Gonçalo Ramos, who is expected to join AC Milan. Reports suggest manager Luis Enrique has personally spoken with Alvarez, although the French champions are simultaneously assessing other striking options.
Real Madrid have also explored the possibility of signing the World Cup winner, but Alvarez is reportedly unwilling to swap Atletico for their fierce city rivals, further narrowing his list of preferred destinations.
Barcelona, however, remain firmly in the driving seat.
The Catalan club have reportedly tabled an offer worth just over €100 million (£85 million), although president Joan Laporta has warned that the proposal will not remain on the table indefinitely. Speaking ahead of Spain’s World Cup semi-final against France, Laporta insisted Barcelona would not wait forever, making it clear the club expects a decision soon.
Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to work on several transfer targets as they reshape Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Alongside Alvarez, the Gunners remain keen on Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers and continue to monitor Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, although there is no certainty the France international will become available this summer.
For now, Alvarez’s stance has not changed. Barcelona remain his preferred destination, but Arsenal are staying in close contact and are prepared to move quickly if negotiations with the La Liga champions collapse. With Atletico increasingly favouring a sale to England over one to a domestic rival, the coming weeks could prove decisive in one of the summer’s biggest transfer sagas.
