Long-term admirers Arsenal emerged as a potential destination for Julian Alvarez in the summer, but the Argentina international seemingly only wanted to join Barcelona before a move was blocked
Julian Alvarez
Arsenal transfer target Julian Alvarez has split with his agent amid uncertainty around his future(Image: Getty Images)
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Julian Alvarez has reportedly split from his agent Fernando Hidalgo after a frustrating summer in which he remained at Atletico Madrid despite wanting to join La Liga rivals Barcelona. Arsenal had been monitoring the situation throughout the transfer window and were prepared to pay more than £100million to sign the Atletico striker.
However, Alvarez was reportedly only interested in moving to Barcelona. Atletico ultimately refused to sanction a transfer to their domestic rivals, leaving the Argentine facing an uncertain situation.
After being booed by some of his own supporters, there were hopes from Arsenal’s perspective that he might reconsider his options. Instead, Alvarez stayed in Madrid, although he has yet to score this season or start a league game.
Questions remain over the 26-year-old’s long-term future at the Wanda Metropolitano, with the possibility of another move emerging when the January transfer window opens. His reported decision to seek new representation could prove significant as speculation over his future continues.
Reports in Spain claim Alvarez has ended his relationship with Hidalgo and is expected to appoint a new agent in the near future. The decision is said to stem from his disappointment with the handling of his future during the summer transfer window.
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Following months of speculation and uncertainty, Alvarez is reportedly seeking discretion, calm and peace of mind as he attempts to rediscover his best form at Atletico.
Julian Alvarez
Alvarez in action for Atletico Madrid(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
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The split is understood to have been welcomed by Atletico, with reports suggesting there is a feeling within the club that the former Manchester City forward was 'poorly advised' during the transfer saga.
Any potential move to Barcelona down the line remains uncertain given their financial position, Atletico's unwillingness to sell a key player to a domestic rival, and the club's reported interest in Alvarez's compatriot, Latauro Martinez.
Meanwhile, The Telegraph reported earlier this month that Atletico have expressed an interest in signing Arsenal forward Noni Madueke, with Serie A giants Juventus also said to be monitoring the situation. The England international's limited opportunities in the starting line-up this season have reportedly attracted interest from several clubs across Europe.
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Madueke has made five appearances for the Gunners this term, but only two have come in the Premier League, where he has played just 23 minutes. Atletico's reported interest could offer Arsenal a potential advantage in their pursuit of Alvarez, should the Spanish club's interest in Madueke develop into a concrete transfer opportunity.
Madueke joined Arsenal from Chelsea last year in a £48.5million deal and went on to score nine goals in 48 appearances across all competitions.