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An inside account of Arsenal’s transfer window has shed light on why Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez declined a move to the Gunners.

The Argentina international had very few choices left on deadline day after it became clear that Atletico Madrid would not shift from their position on Barcelona.

Speaking last Thursday, Atletico Madrid chief executive Miguel Angel Gil Marin, described as ‘repulsed’, made it clear that the Spanish club would never sell to Barcelona while he remains at the club.

Gil Marin said: “The truth is that it outrages us even more; we are repulsed by the dishonesty, the lack of ethics, transparency and professionalism, and we can only insist that we will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances.

“I have the support of everyone working with me, from shareholders to directors, and the only certain and firm decision is that we will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances. You have my word – the player [Alvarez] will most certainly not be transferred to Barcelona.”

Arsenal became the only realistic destination for Alvarez as the final days of the window drew near, with widespread reports suggesting the Gunners were ready to press ahead with a deal if they received the Argentina star’s approval.

That approval never came, though, and The Athletic’s James McNicholas has outlined three reasons Alvarez rejected Arsenal, who were also interested in signing Malick Fofana from Lyon, one of them being doubts over what life in London would be like for him.

McNicholas wrote in The Athletic: ‘This summer, Arsenal felt differently. Arsenal met with Atletico officials on August 20 to indicate their willingness to buy the player. Atletico were receptive — with a move to Barcelona off the table, Arsenal’s interest provided a potential out.

‘Arsenal were attracted by the prospect of landing a marquee name. Alvarez, however, was unmoved by the prospect of a move to London. Compelling financial offers were floated, but Alvarez was intransigent. He was resistant to the idea of returning to England, citing concerns over family and lifestyle.

‘He was determined to join Barcelona. Failing that, he too would stay in Madrid.

‘Arsenal showed the ambition to pursue elite difference-makers in attack — but could not persuade them to join. Arsenal spent the summer shopping at the top end of the market, only to discover that some of its most coveted goods remain reserved for a select few. It’s a reminder of Arsenal’s place in the European hierarchy. For all the Premier League’s wealth and power, the pull of Barcelona and Madrid remains unsurpassed.’