Arsenal have been linked with a move for former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez and Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has now offered his verdict on the striker
Diego Simeone
Diego Simeone has given his take on Julian Alvarez's future(Image: Getty Images)
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Diego Simeone has leapt to the defence of forward Julian Alvarez amid claims he could leave the club. The Argentine has been a star player for Atletico Madrid following a big-money switch from Manchester City.
He has scored 40 goals in 85 outings for Atleti but reports have recently suggested that he could be on the move. Spanish rivals Barcelona have been linked with a swoop for his services, while Arsenal have reportedly renewed their interest.
The Gunners are understood to have lodged an informal enquiry for Alvarez ahead of a potential summer move. Atletico boss Simeone was asked about the forward and whether supporters could still believe in him.
He angrily replied: "Seriously? Are you seriously asking me that? The truth is that Julian Alvarez speaks for himself, because of the name he has, the authority he carries, and the career he’s built, right?"
Meanwhile, Alvarez’s agent has also addressed his client’s future and suggested that while no tangible move has been made for the Argentine, he remains committed to his current employers.
Speaking to Eremnews via Sport, Fernando Hidalgo, said: “Any club interested in Julian should contact Atletico Madrid’s management, as the player is under contract and committed to the club. It’s not true, I haven’t met with Deco or anyone from Barcelona during the current period.”
Alvarez has also spoken out on a potential move and suggested such talk is simply just speculation. Speaking earlier this season, he said: “Look, it doesn’t bother me. I try not to pay much attention, but I know what’s being said.
“It’s all over social media. I think it’s more what’s being said online than what’s actually happening.
Diego Simeone
Siemone has given an angry response about talk over Julian Alvarez's future(Image: Getty Images)
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“I’m very focused on this season, on what lies ahead with Atletico Madrid. So, I try to tune it out and think about myself, about continuing to grow as a player, and about winning.”
Alvarez remains under contract with Atletico Madrid until 2030, with the Spanish side reportedly aiming to bank in excess of €100m to sell him. Should Arsenal pay that, it would represent another lucrative investment into their forward line following the summer arrival of Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon.
The Swedish international has so far struggled throughout his time in North London, with just five Premier League goals to his name so far. He will be aiming to be on the scoresheet this weekend as Mikel Arteta ’s side take on Manchester United.
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