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Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to complete the signing of Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, with manager Mikel Arteta eager to secure his main attacking target ahead of pre-season. The North London club aims to take advantage of Atletico’s firm refusal to negotiate with Barcelona over the Argentina international.

Arteta prioritises his top attacking target

As reported by The Independent, timing is key for Arsenal, who want Alvarez to join the squad before pre-season training begins. The Argentine’s profile has soared following his recent exploits on the international stage, where he scored a stunning extra-time winner in Argentina’s 3-1 World Cup quarter-final triumph over Switzerland. That strike showcased the kind of quality Arsenal believe can elevate their squad after last season’s title-challenging campaign.

Atletico rule out deals with Barcelona and Real Madrid

Atletico Madrid have reportedly closed the door on any potential move to their La Liga rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid for Alvarez. Tensions between Atletico and Barcelona have grown, with the Spanish capital club expressing frustration through a series of public statements. Atletico’s leadership at the Metropolitano has been increasingly irritated by what they view as attempts from the two giants to unsettle their player through public campaigns.

This firm stance has effectively opened the way for Arsenal, as Atletico remain far more open to selling abroad. Alvarez enjoyed a stellar campaign last season, making 49 appearances across all competitions, scoring 20 goals and registering nine assists. The Independent also reports that Paris Saint-Germain expressed interest, though their approach was seen as exploratory rather than serious, leaving Arsenal in pole position.

Negotiations over the £100 million valuation

According to The Independent, Arsenal are hesitant to go beyond a £90 million valuation for Alvarez, while Atletico Madrid are demanding in excess of £100 million. Resolving this financial gap is now the main challenge for the Arsenal hierarchy as they aim to conclude the deal swiftly.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is leading the negotiations and finds himself in an unusual situation, dealing directly with his former club. His established connections at Atletico could be crucial in reaching a compromise, though the Spanish side hold a strong bargaining position. Arsenal, however, remain determined to secure a player already familiar with English football, having represented Manchester City from 2022 to 2024, during which he won two Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy.

Arsenal’s wider transfer plans include Morgan Rogers

The chase for Alvarez forms part of a broader summer recruitment push by Arsenal. Alongside their pursuit of the Atletico forward, the club are also interested in signing England and Aston Villa midfielder Morgan Rogers. Progress on that front has been delayed due to logistical complications caused by the ongoing World Cup, which has temporarily slowed several major European transfers as players and staff remain engaged in international duty.