Arsenal’s hopes of signing Julian Alvarez in January have been dealt a major blow, with Atletico Madrid reportedly telling the Gunners and Paris Saint-Germain that the forward will not leave during the season.
TEAMtalk reports that Atletico have made their position clear to both clubs and to Alvarez, despite Arsenal maintaining contact with the Argentina international’s representatives after the summer transfer window.
Alvarez was linked with a move away from Madrid during the summer. Barcelona was reportedly his preferred destination, but Atletico were unwilling to sell him to their LaLiga rivals. The Spanish club were open to discussing a possible deal with Arsenal, and talks were held in London with Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta.
Arsenal remained interested in the 26-year-old and were hoping he might become more open to a move to north London. That route now appears closed for January, unless Atletico change their stance.
Alvarez’s apology eases tension at Atletico
The decision comes as Alvarez works to rebuild his relationship with Atletico supporters. He has returned to form, scoring against Stuttgart in the Champions League and Deportivo La Coruña in LaLiga.
The forward also apologised publicly to fans over comments he made during the summer. Diego Simeone welcomed the gesture, describing Alvarez as a humble and hard-working player.
“I really appreciate his apology. Doing so is not easy,” Simeone said. “He cares deeply about his teammates and I am grateful for his apology because it puts him right back where he deserves to be and where he belongs.”
Alvarez’s improved performances, apology and backing from Simeone appear to have strengthened Atletico’s resolve to keep him for the rest of the season.
What it means for Arsenal and Gyökeres
Arsenal will have to look elsewhere if they want to strengthen their attack in January. The club’s admiration for Alvarez is understood to remain, but any renewed move may have to wait until the summer.
The reported decision could also affect Viktor Gyökeres. With Alvarez unavailable, a possible departure for the Arsenal striker may be more likely to be considered at the end of the season, although that remains speculative.
PSG have also been told Alvarez will not be available in January. TEAMtalk reports that the French club were not planning to move for him as a short-term replacement for the injured Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
