Chelsea are quietly moving ahead in the race for Julián Álvarez, according to fresh information from Argentina. The London club now appear as the most advanced side in talks for the Atlético Madrid striker.
Speaking on ESPN Argentina, journalist Jorge Baravalle shifted the focus of the saga towards the Blues’ strategy to land the striker – despite Arsenal and Barcelona dominating recent European headlines.
Chelsea’s silent approach
Baravalle stressed that Chelsea’s work has developed with little public exposure. “I insist, people are talking about a lot with Barcelona and Arsenal,” he said. “But I’m being told that the team slowly moving forward is Chelsea. Chelsea, quietly, are advancing for Julián Álvarez.”
He made clear that talks already exist. “I’m told there are conversations. In fact, part of the agency handling Julián’s transfer was in London this week, watching Chelsea v Arsenal.”
The journalist then underlined the current balance. “They know both clubs want him, but what I’m being told is that, as of today, the most advanced contacts are with Chelsea.”
Spanish reports still back Arsenal
This Argentine update contrasts with reporting that we covered from Spain. Outlets have claimed that Arsenal lead the race and stand as the main favourites to sign the striker.
As a result, European and South American sources now point in different directions. In the meanwhile, Álvarez remains under contract with Atlético Madrid until 2030. His release clause sits at a symbolic figure, but Argentine sources point to a lower working valuation.
Baravalle stated that “at least €90m would be the price Atlético are asking for Julián,” with the clause mainly used as leverage in negotiations.
For now, no club has made a formal move. Still, the contrast between Spanish and Argentine reporting underlines how fluid the situation remains ahead of the summer window.