Arsenal have shown interest in Julian Alvarez during this summer transfer window, but have yet to receive encouragement that the forward is open to joining them
Julian Alvarez looking on before an Atletico Madrid match
Arsenal transfer target Julian Alvarez is not training with Atletico Madrid, reportedly due to an illness(Image: Getty Images)
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Julian Alvarez did not train with Atletico Madrid today in their first session since receiving a hostile reception in the weekend's 2-2 draw with Villarreal.
Alvarez, 26, came on as a second-half substitute at Metropolitano Stadium, being booed onto the pitch, as well as off it, during Sunday's La Liga match. Atletico staff then escorted him down the tunnel rather than allowing Alvarez to join other squad members in showing appreciation to their supporters.
Diego Simeone later explained publicly that "it was a club decision not to let Julian Alvarez go over with his team-mates to greet the fans."
Marca reports that the team were given two days off afterwards, with their first day back being today (Wednesday). Alvarez, however, is not training, reportedly due to an illness.
His absence is described as "one more step that feeds everything that has been talked about" this summer. The transfer saga is now into its third month, after apparently starting on May 25.
Following the first four weeks of speculation, Alvarez spoke out about it during the World Cup. He said after playing in Argentina's second group stage game against Austria: "I spoke with people at the club (Atletico), with those I had to speak with.
"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."
He added: "It's not known when it will be resolved." It is still not known when it will be resolved.
He returned to training over a fortnight ago but is not working with the team so far this week despite finally featuring on Sunday night. Atletico are away to Sevilla on Saturday night, three days before the transfer deadline at 11pm on September 1.
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Mikel Arteta was asked about whether Arsenal need to sign another forward after their 3-0 win over Coventry City. The manager said: "I'm really happy with the squad that we have, and the main focus is to improve the players we already have, as we already have a lot of good things."
Alvarez remains the club's strongest candidate to become their major forward signing. They continue to seek clarification on his interest in a move to north London and on whether Atletico will sell.
Barcelona are understood to be his preference. His club, however, are thus far reluctant to sell.