Alan Shearer believes Arsenal have been handed major encouragement in their pursuit of Julian Alvarez, with the former England striker suggesting the Gunners could be in a strong position to “nab” the Atletico Madrid forward before the transfer deadline.
Alvarez has been heavily linked with a potential move away from the Spanish capital, with Arsenal emerging as one of the clubs reportedly interested in securing his signature during the closing stages of the window.
And Shearer believes the Argentine would represent a transformative addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad, describing him as the type of signing capable of helping Arsenal take the final step towards winning the Premier League title.
The former Newcastle United and England striker also pointed to Atletico’s potential reluctance to sell Alvarez to a direct rival, a factor that could work in ARSENAL‘s favour should the forward become available
‘We’ve heard of a lot of pushing from Barcelona and the reluctant from Atletico,’ Premier League record goalscorer Shearer said on The Rest is Football podcast.
‘It seems like their thinking might be, “if we have to sell, we’re not selling to you [Barcelona”.
‘There’s just maybe a small opportunity or a small window there for Arsenal to nab him you would think. And if they do it’s done by the way [the Premier League title race].’
For the Gunners, the prospect of adding a player with Alvarez’s pedigree before the deadline could represent a significant statement of intent. The Argentine knows the Premier League well from his time at Manchester City and has already demonstrated that he can perform under the pressure of competing for major honours.
The key question is whether ARSENAL can turn their reported interest into a concrete agreement before time runs out.
With Shearer suggesting Arsenal could be in the driving seat, and Atletico potentially reluctant to strengthen a domestic rival, the Gunners may have a valuable advantage if negotiations for Alvarez gather momentum in the coming days
MORE ARSENAL NEWS AND GOSSIP –
Top Read: Kroenke ‘ON WAY’ complete £120M Arsenal SIGNING – Gunners agree £55M deal – £77M star WILL Be Gunner this summer
Most Read: Giants AGREE SELL £120M star to Arsenal – £300k-a-week ace open Emirates move – Arteta told to sign £100M star
Must Check Out: One of worlds best confirms Arsenal deal COMING – £50M star to leave Arsenal – Gunners make offer sign wantaway striker