Arsenal are pushing to secure the signature of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, according to The Independent.
The Gunners were interested in landing the World Cup winner earlier this summer, but paused their pursuit after learning about his desire to join Barcelona.
However, Atletico have made it clear that the 26-year-old won’t be permitted to sign for either Barcelona or Real Madrid during the ongoing transfer window.
Alvarez is now open to a move to the Gunners, and they are ‘pushing’ for an early transfer.
Arsenal are reluctant to pay over £90 million for the versatile striker, but Atletico are still looking for more than £100m to part ways with the ex-Manchester City man.
Arsenal handed boost in signing Alvarez
Atletico have categorically ruled out Alvarez joining Barcelona or Real Madrid. Paris Saint-Germain were linked with him earlier this summer, but are not weighing up an approach.
The European champions are more likely to pursue another winger. RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande is the prime target and they could enter formal negotiations for the Ivorian soon.
Arsenal have now been handed a big boost to land Alvarez, who registered 20 goals and nine assists in 49 appearances for Atletico during the 2025/26 campaign.
The striker had a notable dip from his 37 goal involvements in his debut season, but there is no doubting his quality in the final third. He is one of the best finishers.
The 26-year-old had a quiet World Cup for Argentina until yesterday’s quarter-final against Switzerland. He showed his class with a sublime curling strike from the edge of the box for the winner.
Aside from his goal-scoring ability, Alvarez is strong with his hold-up and link-up play. He is primarily a striker but can operate behind or from the right wing if required.
Alvarez has barely played on the left wing at the senior level. It remains to be seen how manager Mikel Arteta will utilise him if Arsenal succeed in bringing him to the club.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com