Arsenal have been pursuing Julian Alvarez for the entire summer transfer window
Julian Alvarez.
Julian Alvarez could head to north London this summer(Image: Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images)
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Atletico Madrid's pursuit of Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson could potentially open the door for Arsenal to sign Julian Alvarez.
Marca reports that the Senegal international has 'said yes' to the move, with the La Liga giants the 'most appealing destination' for him. The Blues are holding back on agreeing to the deal with Aston Villa still weighing up a move for Jackson.
football.london understands Chelsea are demanding £65 million for the striker and would prefer a direct sale to another season-long loan, but La Liga outfit Atletico would prefer to take him on loan. Should Chelsea and Atleti come to an agreement for Jackson, however, then the move could be the final piece of the puzzle for the Gunners.
Arsenal have been very keen on Alvarez for the entire transfer window, with Barcelona also pursuing the Argentina international. However, Atleti have ruled out any transfer to a direct rival this summer despite Alvarez showing a clear preference to join Barca.
Atletico potentially sealing a move for Jackson as his replacement could further enhance the Gunners' chances of landing the striker in what would be a dream scenario for the club before the window closes. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta have reportedly been in constant contact with the forward, who is "very grateful" for Arsenal's interest in him.
Nicolas Jackson.
Nicolas Jackson could be Alvarez's replacement at Atleti(Image: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
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It comes following the news that the 26-year-old is now reportedly warming to a move to the Premier League champions after losing out on the opportunity to swap La Liga clubs. Spanish newspaper AS claims that Alvarez views north London as a viable alternative transfer now and has been in constant contact with the Gunners.
The Standard reports that the north London outfit are now the frontrunner for Alvarez and may get their dream transfer by the end of the window.
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Alvarez was absent from Alteti's squad in their opening day win over Malaga, with Diego Simeone stating he was 'not in condition to play in this match.' However, the manager insisted the Argentine won't be departing the club and confirmed he will be available to face Villarreal today.
During Saturday's press conference, Simeone said: "Julian Alvarez will be in the squad tomorrow. For me, Julian is an extremely important player for us to achieve our objectives, As long as he’s with the team, I’m going to look after him."
Julian Alvarez.
Alvarez is now open to an Arsenal move(Image: Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images)
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The Atleti fanbase looks to have branded Alvarez an outcast due to the transfer speculation but Simeone continues to defend the striker from the backlash. He added: "I respect our fans, I always have, but I don’t agree with insults or abuse. Every word is being scrutinised by people waiting to create conflict and uncertainty.
"There is no uncertainty. Miguel was very clear. He is our player and we need him."
But with Jackson potentially heading to Spain, this may be the turning point Arteta needs to finally land one of his top targets.
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