Arsenal’s search for a new forward is continuing ahead of what is expected to be another huge summer at the Emirates, and Julian Alvarez remains one of the standout names on the club’s shortlist.
Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to add more attacking depth after another demanding season in which Arsenal competed strongly both domestically and in Europe.
Eze-Arteta-Setford-Salmon
Despite reaching the Champions League final and winning their first Premier League title in over two decades, there is a growing feeling internally that another elite forward could help take the squad to the next level.
In recent weeks, several credible reports have linked Arsenal with Alvarez as the club explore options capable of improving both versatility and goal output in the front line.
The Argentina international has continued to attract admiration because of his work rate, movement and ability to operate across multiple attacking positions, not to mention his 20 goals in all competitions for Atletico this term.
The Independent reported earlier this week that Alvarez is a key target for the Gunners, while other reports in Spain and England have continued to suggest Arteta is a major admirer of the former Man City forward.
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The Spaniard is also preparing for a blockbuster Champions League final.
Atletico remain determined to demand top dollar for their star man, and now further insight has emerged from talkSPORT journalist Ben Jacobs.
Arsenal told Julian Alvarez deal conditions as Barcelona submit first bid
Posting on X, Jacobs reported that Barcelona have now submitted an £87 million bid for Alvarez as they attempt to bring the Argentine to Camp Nou this summer.
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According to Jacobs, Atletico are demanding even more than the £104m Barcelona previously paid to sign Antoine Griezmann from Atletico in 2019 — a deal that remains one of the biggest in La Liga history.
Most significantly, Jacobs also stated that Alvarez has made it clear he wants to leave the Wanda Metropolitano this summer.
That development could have major implications across the European transfer market, including for Arsenal.
While Barcelona appear to be leading the race at this stage, the size of the financial package required means the situation is unlikely to move quickly or simply.
This has been made especially clear by Atletico's sensational response to Barca's opening bid, with the La Liga side sending an hilarious public dig on social media.
Atletico are understood to value Alvarez extremely highly, and they are in a strong negotiating position given the length of his contract.
Alvarez only joined Atletico from City in 2024, but he quickly became one of the club’s key attacking players. His movement, energy and ability to contribute both goals and assists has made him one of Simeone’s most trusted forwards.
That form has only strengthened Arsenal’s admiration.
Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez celebrates scoring their fifth goal with Antoine Griezmann
Alvarez’s mobility and technical quality would fit naturally into Arsenal’s fluid front line, while his Premier League experience from his time at City also removes some of the adaptation risk associated with major signings.
The biggest obstacle for Arsenal and Berta, however, is likely to be financial.
Arsenal BERTA
If Atletico are genuinely demanding more than £104m, any deal would become extremely difficult for most clubs in Europe, especially given Arsenal are also expected to strengthen in midfield and defence this summer.
Barcelona’s interest could also complicate matters further.
Despite their well-documented financial issues, the Spanish giants are somehow splashing the cash, having just signed Anthony Gordon on a marquee deal from Newcastle.
For Arsenal, the situation remains one to watch closely rather than one nearing completion.
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The north Londoners have a few key decisions to make ahead of Budapest.