Julian Alvarez's stellar debut season with Atletico Madrid has caught the attention of Arsenal and Liverpool, but the Argentine is hesitant about a Premier League return. Just a year ago, he left Manchester City for Spain.
Alvarez, who has long been earmarked for success, made his mark in Manchester but was clearly second fiddle to Erling Haaland. Atletico seized the opportunity and shelled out over £80million to bring him to La Liga.
City approved the sale, reaping substantial profits, and Alvarez has swiftly adapted to life under Diego Simeone. He spearheaded Atletico's attack, netting 29 goals in all competitions this season.
Marca reports that newly-crowned Premier League champions Liverpool and runners-up Arsenal have both expressed interest in the 25 year old. The Gunners are reportedly the 'strongest bidder', with a striker high on their priority list.
Although familiar with the rigours of the Premier League, Alvarez is unsure about returning to England given his smooth transition to life in Spain and how well he has integrated into the Atletico squad.
The Spanish publication also suggests that Barcelona could offer Alvarez the chance to stay in La Liga as they see him as a potential successor to Robert Lewandowski. The Catalans clinched the domestic double this season, defeating Atletico along the way.
The World Cup-winning striker has been a smashing success in the capital, expressing his heartfelt gratitude and connection with the club and its supporters. On social media, he gushed: "The first season at home is coming to an end. Thank you for always being there and for making me feel like I belong from day one."
Despite only completing his inaugural year of a six-year contract, Atletico Madrid regards Alvarez as their future leading man. Meanwhile, Liverpool are on the hunt for additional firepower, potentially equipped with more funds should Darwin Nunez move on, while Arsenal's pursuit of a forward hedges on their ability to snap up Viktor Gyokeres.
However, Atletico president Enrique Cerezo has staunchly refuted any suggestion of parting ways with their talismanic striker, proudly stating: "Julian Alvarez is a player of Atletico de Madrid. He's very happy here, he is our player and he will remain our player. He was raised at Atletico Madrid and he will die at Atletico Madrid."