Reports have once again linked Arsenal with Julian Alvarez, after they considered a move for him in last summer
11:48, 25 Jan 2026Updated 11:48, 25 Jan 2026
Julian Alvarez and Diego Simeone
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Julian Alvarez has been linked with a move to Arsenal(Image: )
Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has pushed back against criticism of Julian Alvarez amid fresh links to Arsenal. Earlier this week, reports claimed Arsenal have held 'exploratory talks' over a move for the former Manchester City forward.
Arsenal were said to be keen on Alvarez last year before they shelled out £63million on Viktor Gyokeres. However, they could look for another attacker in the summer window, given the Swede's struggles in the English top‑flight.
Atletico, meanwhile, are understood to be willing to part with Alvarez, who joined the La Liga outfit for €100million (£86.8m) in 2024.
At the time, he was brought to the Spanish capital by current Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta.
Julian Alvarez
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Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta bought Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Alvarez has endured a slow campaign to this point, scoring seven times in La Liga and currently enduring a nine‑game run without a goal.
Atletico supporters appear to have lost faith in the Argentine, and he was a topic of discussion during Simeone's press conference ahead of Sunday's meeting with Mallorca.
When asked by reporters whether supporters should believe in Alvarez, Simeone defended his compatriot.
He replied: "Seriously? Are you seriously asking me that?
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"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?"
Alongside Arsenal, Barcelona have also been credited with an interest as they weigh up potential replacements for Robert Lewandowski.
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The Poland international's contract expires at the end of the season, and he is not expected to be offered fresh terms.
Although Alvarez's deal includes a sizeable £433million release clause, reports indicate that Atletico would be willing to consider offers in the region of £86m for the Argentine.
Alvarez still has four-and-a-half years remaining on his contract.