Arsenal are exploring the possibility of using Viktor Gyökeres as part of a deal to sign Julián Álvarez, as Mikel Arteta continues his search for a world-class striker ahead of the new season.
The Gunners have identified Álvarez as one of their priority attacking targets, but negotiations with Atlético Madrid have proven difficult. The Spanish club have shown little willingness to part with the Argentina international and have already rejected significant interest from elsewhere while insisting he remains one of their key players.
According to reports, Arsenal are now considering whether Gyökeres could be included in a player-plus-cash proposal to make any deal more attractive.
The Sweden international is valued at around €60.8 million, while Álvarez’s estimated value stands at approximately €103 million, meaning a swap arrangement would substantially reduce the cash required to complete the transfer.
Despite the idea gathering attention, the move remains at an early stage.
Reports describe Arsenal’s interest as exploratory, with no formal swap agreement currently in place. Any transaction would require the approval of both clubs and both players, making negotiations significantly more complicated than a conventional transfer.
Atlético are believed to admire Gyökeres, but convincing Álvarez to move to north London could prove the biggest obstacle.
The former Manchester City forward has repeatedly been linked with Barcelona, which is understood to be his preferred destination should he leave the Spanish capital. Reports also suggest he is reluctant to return to the Premier League, a stance that could complicate Arsenal’s ambitions.
Nevertheless, some observers believe Arsenal would be an ideal fit for the Argentine.
Speaking to talkSPORT, European football expert Andy Brassell praised Álvarez’s leadership, relentless work rate and versatility, arguing that the 26-year-old possesses qualities few forwards in world football can match. Brassell believes Arteta’s side would benefit enormously from adding a player capable of scoring, creating and leading the press from the front.
Arsenal’s interest in Álvarez forms part of a wider recruitment drive as the Premier League champions continue strengthening their squad. Alongside their pursuit of the Atlético striker, the club remain active in the market for attacking reinforcements and midfield additions as they prepare for another title challenge.
For now, however, a move for Álvarez remains far from straightforward.
Atlético have shown no desire to lower their demands, Barcelona continue to hover in the background, and any swap involving Gyökeres would require multiple complex negotiations before it could become a realistic possibility. While the concept is being explored, Arsenal still face a significant task if they are to lure one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards to the Emirates Stadium.
