Julian Alvarez, Arsenal
© IMAGO
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Julian Alvarez wants ‘nothing to do with Arsenal’ and has refused to even answer phone calls from Gunners manager Mikel Arteta in a devastating blow for the Premier League champions’ hopes of signing the Atletico Madrid attacker.
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Alvarez has emerged as Arsenal’s leading option for a role on the left side of their attack as a deal that will take Gabriel Martinelli to the Saudi Pro League increasingly takes shape.
However, the Argentine is said to have his eyes fixed on a switch to Barcelona.
Atletico Madrid need Julian Alvarez to sign for Arsenal
Alvarez has made it clear that a transfer to Camp Nou is his dream destination and he will not even consider a switch to Arsenal, according to Josep Pedrerol on El Chiringuito (via El Desmarque).
“I was told the other day that Julian Alvarez won't answer Mikel Arteta's calls,” Pedrerol claimed.
“Arteta called Julian, but he didn't answer because Julian Alvarez doesn't want to return to the Premier League.”
He added that Diego Simeone’s side are eager for the player to have a change of heart, having constantly told Barcelona that the player is not for sale.
“Atletico need him to go to the Premier League because they don't want a disgruntled player and they need money for signings,” Pedrerol continued.
“Atletico are in a difficult situation, and at FC Barcelona, they hope that [Atletico Madrid CEO] Gil Marin will eventually swallow his pride and allow Julian to go to Barca because it's the only option.
“Barca are very surprised that even sporting director Enrique Cerezo has gotten involved in the mess. Enrique Cerezo never takes a stand, and yet in several statements, he's been criticising Barca, and Barca has been surprised by Cerezo's attitude. If it were in the best interest of the club, they would sell Julian.”
Jordi Jota added: “Every day that passes, the player's value decreases. Right now, it's Atletico who are in a hurry to sell.”
Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid
© IMAGO - Julian Alvarez, Atletico Madrid
Martinelli closing in on Arsenal exit
Arsenal, meanwhile, are set to land a €60m windfall for Martinelli that could help fund a late bid for Alvarez.
Florian Plettenberg reports the Brazilian’s move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal is “closer than ever”.
The Brazil international had harboured doubts over moving to Saudi, but these appear to be clearing in a shift that opens the door for the Gunners to make another push to sign Alvarez.
Plettenberg reported on Tuesday via X: “New talks and negotiations tonight. Gabriel Martinelli’s move to Al-Hilal is closer than ever.
“Full agreements are almost done. There is a feeling Martinelli is ready to say yet to Al-Hilal.
“Wednesday could be decisive. Final steps now, also with Arsenal.”
However, with Alvarez distinctly cold on a move to Arsenal at present, Arteta may need to reshape his transfer plans for the final days of the window.
Andoni Iraola, LiverpoolNews