Mikel Arteta’s main summer target remains Julian Alvarez, with Arsenal looking to exploit Atletico Madrid’s steadfast refusal to sell to FC Barcelona.
Gary Jacob reports for The Times that Mikel Arteta’s main target this summer has been Julian Alvarez, with Arsenal banking on the fact that Atletico Madrid would refuse to sell to domestic rivals Barcelona – Alvarez’s preferred destination.
Jacob added that Arsenal would be willing to offer a part swap deal involving Viktor Gyokeres, preventing Atletico from needing to search for a replacement.
Similar reports are emerging from Spain, with Miguel Martin Talavera telling Cadena SER that even if Alvarez insists to Atletico that he absolutely wants to leave, he still won’t be joining Barcelona.
Atletico refuse to strengthen a direct rival, particularly given their complaints about Barcelona’s behaviour during this saga.
So if Alvarez has to go, Atletico will only consider selling abroad, with Arsenal reportedly the ‘strongest’ contender for his signature. Talavera highlights that the Gunners’ bid would guarantee an immediate replacement in Gyokeres, as well as a good sum of money.
Atletico chiefs recently released a public statement on their refusal to sell Alvarez this summer, though the comments were always believed to be directed at Barcelona.
The player was reportedly unhappy about the statement, which was posted just days before he was due to play in the World Cup final. But Atletico ultimately hold the cards here, with Alvarez under contract for another four years.
If the relationship between player and club has truly broken down, and if Atletico never change their stance on selling to Barcelona, perhaps Arsenal have a chance.
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