Manchester City's move for Cody Gakpo could inadvertently boost Arsenal's hopes of signing Julian Alvarez before the transfer deadline. The Gunners have been linked with a late swoop for the Atletico Madrid forward, but faced competition from Manchester City and Barcelona.
Atletico rule out Barcelona move
Barcelona remain keen on a deal, but Atletico have categorically ruled out selling to their domestic rivals. A statement from the club's board read: "The members of Atlético Madrid's Board of Directors have unanimously expressed their full support for the club's decision not to negotiate the transfer of Julián Alvarez to FC Barcelona."
The statement added: "Atlético Madrid is open to negotiations that are part of the transfer market, but always in an ethical and professional manner and with respect between clubs. We fully support the position previously communicated by the club that FC Barcelona have not met these requirements and, as a result, there have been no negotiations, nor will there be any negotiations with them regarding the transfer of Julián Alvarez."
Gakpo chooses City over Spurs
While that news boosted Arsenal's hopes, the Gunners will also be encouraged by developments elsewhere. Manchester City had been linked with Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, facing competition from Tottenham, but the Dutchman now appears to have chosen a move to the Etihad, with all parties in talks to reach an agreement before the window closes.
If City complete that deal, it seems unlikely they will also move for Alvarez, potentially leaving the door open for Arsenal.
Alvarez's decision remains key
With competition out of the way, Arsenal's only remaining obstacle is convincing Alvarez to move to North London. The former City man has prioritised a switch to Barcelona for most of the summer, and it remains unclear whether he would compromise in the final days of the window.
Arsenal have already spent heavily this summer, completing moves for Bruno Guimaraes, Ezri Konsa, Christos Tzolis and Piero Hincapie as they look to defend their Premier League title.
