Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez has a clear transfer stance this summer, according to Spanish outlet Cadena SER.
The 26-year-old had a good second season with Diego Simeone’s side, scoring 20 goals and providing nine assists in all competitions.
The Argentine has his sights on joining Barcelona this summer, but Atletico are ‘very unlikely’ to do business with the Catalan giants.
Atletico CEO Gil Marín does not want to sell Alvarez to Barcelona after the Blaugrana falsely reported a formal transfer bid for the striker.
Arsenal are the ‘only realistic option’ for Alvarez, but he is not considering it. The player ‘does not want’ to go to London.
Hence, Atletico are ‘confident’ that the 26-year-old will remain at the club and are already planning for next season with him.
Arsenal must move on from Alvarez
Gunners manager Mikel Arteta has been a big admirer of Alvarez. Sporting director Andrea Berta also knows him from his time at Atletico.
Berta played a major role in bringing the World Cup winner to Atletico from Manchester City in 2024, and the reported interest is unsurprising.
However, it does not make sense for the Gunners to follow up their pursuit if Alvarez has no desire to move to the English capital this summer.
Alvarez would be a good addition to the Arsenal ranks. He is primarily a centre-forward, but can also operate behind the number nine or out wide when required.
Arteta likes to work with players who can comfortably operate in multiple roles. Alvarez fits the bill with his goals and knack for creating chances with his link-up play.
The Gunners were unsuccessful with a £104 million bid for the versatile forward last summer, and they have the financial capacity to pay even more this time around.
However, the hierarchy must move on from the player, given his clear priority to join Barcelona. It does not seem worthwhile to pursue a deal after learning Alvarez’s stance.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com