Arsenal transfer target Julian Alvarez is willing to “move to London” if he can’t join Barcelona this summer, according to reports.
TEAMtalk claim that both the Gunners and Chelsea had observers in the stands as the forward scored in Atletico Madrid’s 3-2 defeat to Tottenham on Wednesday night.
Most Read on Gooner News
The two teams are keen on recruiting Alvarez at the end of the season, although they are aware of the former Manchester City player’s preference to make the switch to the Camp Nou.
They are, however, mindful of the fact that Barca may not have the financial resources to meet Atletico’s asking price, which could give them an opening.
Alvarez has not ruled out a return to England
TEAMtalk report that the World Cup winner is hoping to leave Atletico, even if it becomes apparent that his preferred destination is not an option.
Were Alvarez to return to the Premier League, though, he is not looking to move back to the North of England. He would much prefer joining a club in the capital, giving Mikel Arteta’s side and Chelsea serious encouragement.
How much would Arsenal have to pay?
Reports in Spain have previously claimed that the Gunners have had an offer of around €120m (£103.7m) rejected for the Argentinian international.
If that is accurate, then it would suggest Atletico have set their asking price above that figure, which would make any deal difficult to secure.
Sporting director Andrea Berta may need to get creative, especially as the club’s transfer budget for the summer transfer window is not believed to be particularly high.
Sales of several players would probably be needed to fund any significant bid for Alvarez. It does, though, appear that the player is open to the idea of moving to the Emirates under the right circumstances.
Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here