Julian Alvarez was absent from Atletico Madrid training on Wednesday morning as speculation over his future and interest from Arsenal and Barcelona continues.
The 26-year-old has made no secret of his desire to leave Atletico this summer, declaring as much at the World Cup. His preference is to move to Barcelona, but Atletico have continued to insist publicly and privately that they have no intention of selling to their Spanish rivals.
Fan reaction and recent match
Alvarez was booed by his own fans during a draw with Villarreal over the weekend. He walked straight down the tunnel after the match, with Diego Simeone revealing that had been pre-agreed with the club.
There is less than a week to go until the end of the transfer window and still Alvarez's future is a long way from being resolved.
Training absence and next steps
Atletico trained on Wednesday morning ahead of their upcoming match against Sevilla but there was no sign of Alvarez. According to reports in Spain, Alvarez missed the session due to a stomach issue that had developed overnight.
It remains to be seen whether the forward returns to training later this week or if he plays any part when Atletico face Sevilla.
Arsenal's interest
Arsenal are closely monitoring the situation as they consider whether a big-money move late in the window is possible. The Gunners have informed Alvarez's representatives of their interest and there is a belief that Atletico could be open to selling to them for the right price.
However, that price is likely to be in the region of £130m, and it is still unclear whether Alvarez would want to return to England. Arsenal will not make a serious approach unless they receive encouragement from Alvarez and his team, knowing that Barcelona are his preferred choice.
Interest in Alvarez from Arsenal is long-standing, with Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta both viewing him as a dream signing. If they get the green light from the player, Arsenal are ready to make a move for the Argentine in the final days of the window.
It is all still up in the air and Alvarez's latest absence will only further muddy the waters.
