Arsenal are weighing up an approach to sign Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez during the summer transfer window, according to Nacion.
The north London giants recruited Viktor Gyokeres to reinforce their strike force last summer, and he has fared decently with 19 goals thus far.
Alvarez has had a similar good season with Atletico and manager Diego Simeone recently confirmed that the Gunners want to secure his services.
Nacion now claim that Mikel Arteta’s side are planning a move to bring the World Cup winner to the Emirates Stadium during the summer.
The Gunners are aware that they would need £86 million to prise the 26-year-old away.
The club have been monitoring his injury history, physiological parameters and productivity. Assistant manager Gabriel Heinze is playing a big part.
Alvarez would be a fine acquisition for Arsenal
The Argentine had a superb debut season with Atletico last term. He netted 29 goals and provided eight assists for the Madrid giants in all competitions.
He has suffered a notable dip in form during the ongoing campaign. Despite this, he has managed 20 goals and nine assists from 48 appearances so far.
Arsenal are set to part ways with Gabriel Jesus as he enters the final year of his contract this summer. AC Milan are reportedly keen on landing his signature.
Kai Havertz is a direct competitor to Gyokeres upfront, but the German’s recurring injury issues mean the club require another marquee marksman next term.
Alvarez would be a guaranteed starter ahead of the duo if he were to make the switch to north London.
The striker, described as ‘world-class‘ by FIFA.com, can hold up play upfront and likes to drop into deeper attacking positions to create chances for his teammates.
Alvarez averages almost 25 passes per game in the Champions League this campaign. He also has the gifted ability to score from free-kicks, which Arsenal lack.
He is the perfect all-round striker Arteta would want in his XI. The big question remains whether the former Manchester City man can be convinced to return to England.
Stats from Transfermarkt & Sofascore