Cameron Smith
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal, 2025/26
© IMAGO
Arsenal have been handed an unexpected boost in their bid to sign Julian Alvarez following reports that Barcelona want to finalise a contract extension agreement with Robert Lewandowski.
The Gunners have earmarked Alvarez as one of their top targets for the upcoming summer transfer window, amid their pursuit of a new centre forward, but they had been expected to face significant competition from Barcelona.
Hansi Flick’s side are restricted by limited transfer funds, but Alvarez has been identified as their dream long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski and they were set to chase a deal if the Poland legend departs on a Bosman deal this summer.
Lewandowski’s contract is due to expire in July and reports have indicated that he is likely to depart Camp Nou following a hugely successful four-year stint with the Catalan giants.
However, Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg has now revealed that a new contract is on the cards, which could help Arsenal in their bid to secure Alvarez’s signature.
Plettenberg posted on X" href="https://x.com/Plettigoal/status/2046270733882372133" target="_blank">Plettenberg posted on X: “Joan Laporta wants to extend Robert Lewandowski’s contract until 2027. Reduced wages are being considered, but no concrete negotiations over figures have taken place yet - they are expected to follow soon.
“Personal terms are not an issue, given the excellent relationship between Laporta/Pini Zahavi/Lewy. Chicago Fire have presented an interesting offer, clubs from Saudi Arabia and two top European clubs are also in the race. Decision soon.”
Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid
© IMAGO - Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid
Arsenal handed Julian Alvarez transfer boost
Rumours in the Spanish press suggest that Alvarez doesn’t want to return to the Premier League this summer" href="https://www.footballtransfers.com/en/transfer-news/uk-premier-league/2026/04/arsenal-transfer-news-julian-alvarez-mikel-arteta-atletico-madrid-analysis" target="_blank">Rumours in the Spanish press suggest that Alvarez doesn’t want to return to the Premier League this summer, but widespread reports indicate that a move to Arsenal could be on the cards if the Gunners are able to tempt Atletico Madrid into a sale.
Diego Simeone’s side currently have no intention of allowing their star player to depart during the upcoming window and it’s believed that an offer worth at least €120 million will be required for Arsenal to be successful in their pursuit of the Argentina striker.
However, news that Barcelona are hoping to extend Lewandowski’s contract could rule them out of the race to sign Alvarez, meaning Arsenal may feasibly have a free-run at his signature if they are willing to make him their all-time record signing.
Alvarez has scored 48 goals in 104 games for Atletico Madrid, since his arrival from Manchester City in 2024, and he still has four years remaining on his current contract at the club.
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