Arsenal have completely ruled out a summer move for Julian Alvarez after learning the Atletico Madrid forward only wants to join Barcelona. The Gunners had made the Argentina international a top target as Mikel Arteta sought to strengthen his attack following Arsenal's first Premier League title in 22 years.
Atletico Madrid rejected an opening bid of €100 million (£86.4 million) from Barcelona, whom they accuse of conducting a public and disrespectful pursuit. Atletico also explored a swap deal that would send Alvarez to Arsenal for €60 million (£51.7 million) plus Viktor Gyokeres, but Alvarez refused to move to north London.
Alvarez Breaks Silence on Transfer Desire
Alvarez ended weeks of speculation by publicly stating his wish to leave Atletico. 'I spoke with the people I needed to speak with and the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream,' he said after Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria. Paris Saint-Germain had also shown interest, but Alvarez's preference has always been Barcelona.
According to SPORT, Arsenal have now 'completely ruled out' a move for the former Manchester City star and will shift focus to other targets.
Arsenal Eye Bournemouth's Junior Kroupi
One alternative is Bournemouth forward Junior Kroupi, who scored 13 Premier League goals last season after joining from Lorient for £10 million. The 20-year-old Frenchman has attracted interest from Chelsea, Liverpool, PSG, and Bayern Munich. Reports suggest his price tag could reach €100 million (£86 million).
