Julian Alvarez and Bradley Barcola have both been linked with a summer move to Arsenal as Mikel Arteta seeks attacking reinforcements
21:00, 12 Jul 2026
Julian Alvarez looks on
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Atletico Madrid and Argentina striker Julian Alvarez has been linked with Arsenal(Image: FIFA via Getty Images)
Arsenal are reportedly prioritising a deal for Julian Alvarez, with Bradley Barcola not for sale. The Gunners have been looking to strengthen their attack this summer ahead of next season's Premier League title defence.
Atletico Madrid striker Alvarez and Paris Saint-Germain forward Barcola have been two of the biggest names linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium. 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 Atletico have previously warned any interested parties they will have to match their valuation.
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Barcola, meanwhile, struggled for game time at PSG last season. That has alerted Arsenal to the possibility of him being made available this summer, with Liverpool also linked.
But the Independent report that the European champions want to keep him. It is said the situation may change again after the World Cup, but Arsenal are currently pushing on a 'quick deal' for Alvarez instead.
Bradley Barcola (France) during Round of 16 FIFA World Cup 2026, Paraguay and France
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Bradley Barcola has been linked with a transfer to Liverpool and Arsenal this summer(Image: (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images))
It is said they are looking to get a deal done before pre-season, as competition for the player looks to have regressed. It is claimed a prior issue has been that they do not want to go above £90m, whereas Atletico want north of £100m.
And in a further boost to the Gunners, Spanish radio station COPE reports that Atletico are refusing to negotiate with Barca and are instead working with Arsenal on a deal for Alvarez.
Speaking in June about his future, he said: "I spoke with people at the club, with those I had to speak with and the best thing for everyone is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream.
"It's not the time to talk about this, but I also can't hide it. I try to be an honest person."
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