Julian Alvarez has missed Atletico Madrid training for a second day after being told the club will not negotiate with Barcelona. Arsenal now hope to take advantage of the situation and sign the Argentina striker, as per latest transfer news.
Arsenal see opening for Julian Alvarez
As reported by BBC Sport, Atletico have privately told Alvarez and his representatives that they will not discuss a move to Barcelona. The 26-year-old has missed 2 days of training since, with illness given as the reason for his absence.
Atletico have made their position clear. The board has said Alvarez will not join Barcelona. However, Atletico are open to talks with Arsenal. The two clubs have already spoken. Atletico director Mateu Alemany is also reported to have met Arsenal officials in London last week.
Atletico want around €150 million for Alvarez. Arsenal want to make a deal, but convincing the striker to move to England could be the main challenge. The Gunners are watching the situation closely. The deal could happen quickly if Alvarez agrees to speak with Arsenal.
Alvarez faces key decision
As reported by Goal.com, Arsenal believe the dispute between Atletico and Barcelona could give them a chance to change Alvarez’s mind. The striker is reportedly happy in Spain, where he has settled with his family. He also has no strong desire to return to England after previously playing for Manchester City.
Arsenal’s main argument is their sporting project. The club have recently won the Premier League title and reached the Champions League final. Mikel Arteta has built a team that plays attacking football and this may suit Alvarez. Arsenal think Alvarez may be more productive in a set-up that sees him spend more time closer to the opposition’s goal. At Atletico, he has often been asked to perform defensive duties and start attacks from deeper areas.
That could make Arsenal a strong option if Alvarez decides to leave Atletico. Money could also play a big part in the decision. Arsenal are reportedly ready to offer wages that would match those of some of Europe’s biggest stars.
Julian Alvarez’s 2025/26 stats at Atletico Madrid, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Chances Created
La Liga 29 8 4 47
Copa Del Rey 4 2 1 3
Champions League 15 10 4 33
Club World Cup 3 0 1 6
Barcelona and Atletico remain at odds
Alvarez’s future is still unclear. The dispute between Barcelona and Atletico has made the situation even more difficult. Atletico believe Barcelona acted wrongly by contacting the player. Barcelona, however, say they have been clear about their interest.
Barcelona have reportedly offered €100 million, but Atletico have rejected the offer. Club president Joan Laporta still wants Alvarez, while Atletico remain firm on their decision not to sell him to Barcelona. This could give Arsenal a chance to sign the striker.
If Barcelona fail to reach an agreement, Alvarez may need to consider other options. Arsenal are ready to act if the striker opens the door to a move. The Gunners have the money to negotiate with Atletico, but Alvarez will make the final decision. With the transfer window closing on September 1, the next few days could be key. Arsenal could still complete one of the biggest deals of the summer if Alvarez decides to leave Atletico.
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