Julian Alvarez is open to joining Arsenal this summer.
Photo: Getty Images
Arsenal are reportedly pushing to complete a deal for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.
The 26-year-old has been at the centre of intense transfer speculation in recent months, with several European giants interested in signing him.
Follow our LIVE Arsenal transfer updates here!
Arsenal, Barcelona and PSG have emerged as the leading contenders for the Argentina international, while Real Madrid and Manchester United have also been linked.
images 14
It has previously been reported that Alvarez’s preferred destination would be Barcelona if he leaves Atletico Madrid this summer.
ADVERTISEMENT
Now, a major update has emerged regarding his future.
More Arsenal news
Julian Alvarez open to Arsenal move
dm 260623 Laurens A Barcelona move for Julian Alvarez is impossible
According to The Independent, Arsenal are pushing to complete a deal for Alvarez before pre-season gets underway.
ADVERTISEMENT
The report claims the striker is open to joining the Gunners this summer, despite preferring to remain in La Liga with either Barcelona or Real Madrid.
Atletico Madrid are also unwilling to sell Alvarez to one of their domestic rivals, which could hand Arsenal an advantage in the race.
julian alvarez arg wc scaled 1
Arsenal have explored alternative attacking targets, including PSG winger Bradley Barcola, as a move for Alvarez has been viewed as difficult.
ADVERTISEMENT
However, Mikel Arteta’s side are now stepping up their pursuit of the Atletico Madrid forward.
Previous reports have suggested Arsenal are reluctant to exceed £90m, while Atletico are demanding at least £100m for their star striker.
Alvarez’s current contract at the Wanda Metropolitano runs until the summer of 2030.
What happens next?
Arsenal are set to step up their plans as the summer transfer window now officially open, with the club continuing to hold internal discussions over potential targets. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta are both believed to be actively assessing several options as preparations for next season continue behind the scenes.
The Gunners are expected to be among the busiest Premier League clubs this summer, with several positions under review. Any move will ultimately depend on availability, financial conditions and how Arsenal prioritise their targets during the transfer window.
ADVERTISEMENT
The bigger picture
Arsenal’s recruitment team continues to focus on players who fit the club’s long-term strategy under Mikel Arteta. Technical quality, tactical intelligence and versatility remain key attributes as the club assesses potential additions ahead of the new campaign.
The club has consistently looked to add players capable of improving both the starting XI and overall squad depth, particularly with the demands of competing in the Premier League and Champions League. Arsenal are expected to strengthen multiple areas of the squad this summer and continue to monitor opportunities across Europe and South America.
Arsenal are expected to make several important decisions regarding the composition of the squad this summer. While strengthening key areas remains a priority, the club could also consider offers for certain players if it helps fund new arrivals and maintain financial flexibility.
Securing the futures of key players remains just as important as making new signings. Arsenal have worked hard to build one of the strongest squads in Europe, and maintaining stability within the group will be crucial as the club looks to continue competing for major honours.
Our View
If the reports are accurate, this would appear to be a move that makes sense for Arsenal. The club are expected to strengthen attacking department during the summer, and Julian Alvarez is believed to be Mikel Arteta’s dream target.
2026 02 18T201344Z 981256332 UP1EM2I1K6UPM RTRMADP 3 SOCCER CHAMPIONS CLU ATM
Whether Arsenal decide to advance their interest in Alvarez remains to be seen, as they are expected to face stiff competition to secure his services. However, it is an encouraging sign, if true, that Alvarez would be keen on joining Mikel Arteta’s side despite his preference remaining a move to Barcelona.
For more Arsenal transfer updates, follow our LIVE blog!