Arsenal have received fresh encouragement in their pursuit of Julián Álvarez after Atletico Madrid’s relationship with Barcelona deteriorated further.
Barcelona remain determined to sign the Argentina international, who is understood to favour a move to the Camp Nou.
However, Atletico’s refusal to sell to a direct La Liga rival could leave Arsenal with a clearer route if Álvarez pushes to leave after the World Cup.
Sky Sports reports that Barcelona’s offer of just over £100m remains on the table. The Spanish champions could raise their proposal beyond €130m plus bonuses once the tournament ends.
Atletico chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has accused Barcelona of showing a lack of respect during their pursuit. Joan Laporta has responded by insisting the offer remains active, although he suggested Atletico’s stance may soften if they identify a replacement.
Atletico stance creates an Arsenal opportunity
Atletico do not want to lose their leading forward, but their position appears firmer when Barcelona are involved.
The Madrid club reportedly rejected a £130m proposal from Real Madrid last month. They are also understood to view a sale to Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain as more acceptable than strengthening another Spanish rival.
Arsenal have already opened communication at ownership level. Sky in Italy reporter Luca Bendoni says the clubs have held initial discussions and remain in contact.
Andrea Berta’s role gives Arsenal valuable knowledge of Atletico’s internal structure and negotiating approach. The Arsenal sporting director held the same position in Madrid before moving to north London last year.
As Read Arsenal reported after direct talks began, the main issue remains the difference between the clubs’ valuations.
Arsenal are reportedly reluctant to move much beyond £90m, while Atletico continue to seek more than £100m for a player under contract until 2030.
Barcelona’s public dispute does not remove that financial obstacle. It could still improve Arsenal’s position if Atletico decide a sale abroad is the only workable outcome.
Álvarez preference remains the main obstacle
Álvarez is believed to favour Barcelona, with his family also keen to remain in Spain.
His position therefore presents a greater problem for Arsenal than Atletico’s asking price alone. Even an acceptable offer would require the 26-year-old to reconsider his preferred destination.
The forward is expected to hold further discussions with Atletico after Argentina’s World Cup campaign ends. He will then take a holiday before reporting for pre-season.
Arsenal can continue discussions during that period, but they will need a clear indication that Álvarez is open to returning to the Premier League.
The former Manchester City forward has the versatility Mikel Arteta values. He can lead the attack, operate behind another striker or move into wider areas.
His experience in England would also reduce the adjustment period normally associated with a nine-figure signing.
Arsenal have alternatives across the forward line
Arsenal’s interest in Álvarez forms part of a wider attempt to strengthen Arteta’s attack.
Christos Tzolis remains under consideration as a possible replacement for Leandro Trossard, while Morgan Rogers is another leading target.
Read Arsenal has covered how the Trossard decision affects the Tzolis pursuit, with the Club Brugge winger viewed as a separate option from Rogers and Álvarez.
Those alternatives give Arsenal room to remain patient. They do not need to accept Atletico’s terms immediately or wait indefinitely for Álvarez to choose London.
The breakdown in relations between Atletico and Barcelona has given Arsenal a better opportunity. Turning it into a transfer will still require movement from the player and a financial compromise between the clubs.
