Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez has been linked with a summer move to Arsenal as the Gunners look to strengthen their attack ahead of next season
18:53, 23 Jun 2026
Julian Alvarez looks on
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Argentina and Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez has been linked with Arsenal (Image: Getty Images)
Atletico Madrid are reportedly exploring a potential swap deal with Arsenal involving Julian Alvarez and Viktor Gyokeres. The former Manchester City striker has caught the eye of Mikel Arteta's side, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain during an impressive spell with Atletico.
Alvarez has confirmed his wish to leave Diego Simeone's team, triggering a scramble amongst Europe's elite clubs to sign him. Barcelona are understood to have approached their La Liga rivals with an offer involving Ferran Torres plus cash for the 26-year-old, but Atletico rejected the offer.
The forward has a reported release clause of €500million (£432m) and have warned any interested parties they'll have to match their valuation.
football.london understands, per sources involved in the secret talks that took place with Barcelona at the Torre Melina hotel in late May, Arsenal have already pushed hard to sign the Argentinian striker this summer behind the scenes.
It is understood they were told by Alvarez's representatives that he is desperate to join Barcelona and have since focused their efforts on other targets.
But according to Spanish radio station COPE, Atletico are refusing to negotiate with Barca and are instead attempting to work with Arsenal on a deal for Alvarez.
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It is claimed that Atletico’s proposal would see Alvarez join Arteta's men in exchange for €60m (£51.7m) plus Gyokeres.
Atletico are said to view Gyokeres as a ‘pure and simple centre-forward’ who would be a better fit for Simeone’s side.
It is said the Sweden international’s arrival would also pave the way for Alexander Sorloth’s exit, as the Norway striker is wanted by Juventus and Napoli.
Viktor Gyokeres has faced plenty of criticism during his first season at Arsenal
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Viktor Gyokeres has faced plenty of criticism during his first season at Arsenal(Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
The Gunners signed Gyokeres in a £64m deal from Sporting last summer. The 28-year-old scored 21 goals in his first season with Arteta’s side as they won the Premier League and reached the Champions League final.
And Arsenal currently appear to be actively pursuing Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, suggesting Gyokeres and Alvarez will remain at their current clubs for the coming season.
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Ayyoub Bouaddi will also be on the Gunners' radar, with Arsenal also among the many European clubs interested. He has impressed for Morocco at this summer's World Cup after a strong season with Lille.
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The futures of Bouaddi, Rogers and Alvarez, along with any other targets out in the United States, will all likely be clarified after the tournament ends in mid-July.