Julian Alvarez is reportedly becoming more open to the possibility of joining Arsenal this summer following conversations with Mikel Arteta, despite Barcelona also maintaining an interest in the Atletico Madrid striker.
The Argentine’s future has become one of the major stories of the transfer window. Arsenal have been monitoring the situation closely as they continue searching for attacking reinforcements after failing to persuade Vinicius Junior to move to north London.
Tension continues to grow between Alvarez and Atletico
The relationship between Alvarez and Atletico has become increasingly strained as the forward pushes for a departure from Madrid. Reports suggest the player wants to leave the Metropolitano before the transfer window closes, even though the club continue to resist the idea of selling him.
Diego Simeone addressed the situation on Saturday and insisted that he expects Alvarez to remain with Atletico this summer. His comments echoed the position previously expressed by CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin, who suggested that the striker has received poor advice regarding his future.
Simeone also said he expected Alvarez to be involved against Villarreal on Sunday. However, reports in Spain indicate that uncertainty surrounding the player has continued to increase.
According to Diario AS, the drawn out transfer situation has left Alvarez frustrated and unsettled. The striker is still believed to be pushing for a move before the deadline despite Atletico’s public stance.
Arsenal emerge as the strongest option
Arsenal now appear to be among the most realistic destinations for Alvarez. The forward is attracted by the possibility of joining Barcelona, and the Catalan club remain interested, but Atletico are reluctant to strengthen a direct domestic rival.
That position could make a return to the Premier League more likely. Alvarez was previously hesitant about moving back to England, but reports now claim he has softened his stance and has not ruled out joining Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are also said to have maintained regular communication with the Argentine throughout the summer. Their aim has been to convince him that Arsenal would offer the right sporting project for the next stage of his career.
Family considerations remain an obstacle
Despite Arsenal’s growing chances, Alvarez is reportedly still uncertain about returning to England. One of his main concerns is understood to be the desire to stay geographically closer to his family.
That preference could continue to influence his final decision, particularly if Barcelona find a way to enter serious negotiations with Atletico. For now, however, the Madrid club’s reluctance to sell to another Spanish side gives Arsenal a potentially important advantage.
With the transfer deadline approaching and Alvarez still pushing for a change, Arsenal appear to have moved closer to the front of the queue. The decisive question is now whether Arteta and the club can convince the striker that another spell in England is the right move for him.
