Arsenal’s move for Julian Alvarez has received fresh encouragement, with Atletico Madrid reportedly more willing to negotiate with the Gunners than Barcelona.
Mikel Arteta’s side could offer Viktor Gyokeres alongside a substantial transfer fee for the Argentina forward.
AS reports that Arsenal are prepared to offer around €100million and Gyokeres. The proposal has not been formally submitted, while Atletico continue to insist Alvarez is not for sale.
Atletico have rejected the prospect of strengthening Barcelona, Alvarez’s preferred destination. Arsenal would not present the same domestic concern, which could give Andrea Berta a clearer route into negotiations if the Spanish club soften their position.
However, Atletico chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin recently said the club would not accept €100m, €150m or even €200m for Alvarez. The forward remains under contract until 2030 and has a €500m release clause.
ReadArsenal previously reported that Arsenal are willing to include Gyokeres in a deal for Alvarez. The Sweden international scored 21 goals in 55 appearances during his first season at the Emirates Stadium.
Why Arsenal remain determined to sign Julian Alvarez
Alvarez would offer Arteta greater flexibility across the front line. He can lead the attack, play behind another striker or move into wider areas when Arsenal rotate positions.
The 26-year-old scored 20 goals and provided nine assists in 49 appearances for Atletico last season. Ten of those goals came during 15 Champions League matches.
His movement and link play would provide a different profile to Gyokeres. Alvarez also understands the Premier League after spending two seasons with Manchester City.
Including Gyokeres would reduce the cash required and provide Atletico with an immediate replacement. The Spanish club considered signing the striker before he left Sporting CP for Arsenal last summer.
An Arsenal move for Julian Alvarez remains difficult. Atletico have publicly ruled out a sale, Alvarez would prefer to remain in Spain and no agreement has been reached.
Arsenal may still believe their proposal can change the situation. Their willingness to sacrifice last season’s leading scorer illustrates how highly Arteta rates the Argentina international.
