​Arsenal are actively pursuing a deal to sign Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez before the start of the next season, according to the Independent. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta is keen to bring the Argentina international to the Emirates, identifying him as their principal attacking target and reportedly one Alvarez would be open to joining. Arsenal are prepared to bid up to £90 million for the former Manchester City forward, though Atletico Madrid are holding out for a price above £100 million.
Last season, Alvarez delivered a strong Champions League campaign, racking up ten goals and four assists in 15 appearances. In La Liga, he contributed eight goals and four assists across 29 matches, highlighting his continued effectiveness at the top level. His form has attracted interest from major European clubs, with Atlético Madrid facing competition from Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain in their efforts to sign him.
Despite widespread interest, Atletico Madrid appear reluctant to sell Alvarez to any of their domestic rivals, notably closing the door on a transfer to Barcelona or Real Madrid. PSG’s level of interest has cooled from its peak, which could work in Arsenal’s favor as negotiations progress. This dynamic gives the Gunners a potential edge in the pursuit, making established talks more feasible once football’s summer calendar moves forward following the World Cup.
Another potential advantage for Arsenal lies in their leadership structure. Sporting director Andrea Berta, who previously worked with Atletico Madrid, maintains a good rapport with his former club. This pre-existing relationship could facilitate smoother discussions and enable Arsenal to navigate any transfer hurdles more effectively. If negotiations resume after the World Cup, Arsenal could leverage Berta’s familiarity with Atletico’s internal processes to push the deal forward.
Arsenal’s clear objective is to add a top-class number nine to their frontline, and Alvarez fits the bill with his combination of goal threat, creativity, and international pedigree. The 26-year-old’s versatility and proven track record in Europe’s top competitions make him an attractive proposition for Arteta, who has long prioritized a striker who can contribute both goals and build-up play. As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal fans will be watching closely to see if the club can bridge the gap between the initial £90m offer and Atletico’s higher asking price, all while considering potential add-ons or structured payments that could make a deal more palatable for both sides.
In summary, Arsenal are pushing to secure Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid before pre-season, with Arteta identifying him as the primary attacking target and Alvarez showing a readiness to move. While the Gunners’ bid sits at around £90 million, Atletico’s £100 million-plus valuation creates a significant hurdle. Nevertheless, favorable competition dynamics, the cooling interest from PSG, and strategic advantages stemming from Berta’s connections could help Arsenal convert interest into a completed transfer as discussions resume after the World Cup.