Atletico Madrid have given Julian Alvarez until Sunday to make a decision over his future. That leaves Arsenal with just hours to convince the forward over a return to the Premier League, after being denied the opportunity to move to Barcelona.
Alvarez's Barcelona dream blocked
The 26-year-old made no secret at the start of the summer that he was desperate to swap the Wanda Metropolitano for Barcelona. The drawn-out saga has sparked a bitter row between Barca and Atletico, and Alvarez looks set to miss the weekend fixture against Sevilla after sitting out training sessions this week through illness.
Arsenal have been looking to capitalise on the dispute between the two Spanish clubs to lure Alvarez to the Emirates. Alvarez has notched 49 goals in 107 appearances since arriving at Atletico in 2024 following his £81.8million departure from Manchester City, and established himself as a star.
Gunners' interest and City links
It is understood that the Gunners are firmly interested in securing Alvarez, but will only pursue a deal if the player himself is fully on board. With the transfer deadline rapidly approaching, time was already running short, but Sky Sports report that Atletico's hierarchy are demanding a decision by Sunday.
Manchester City have also been touted as potential suitors for their former striker. However, Alvarez is said to have reservations about returning to England.
Atletico's stance and price tag
Atletico are demanding a guaranteed £128.4m to release their prized frontman, though carefully managing his return to the fold will be crucial after the club dashed his ambitions. Alvarez has faced a backlash from supporters following his stance this summer.
In June, Alvarez said: "I spoke with the people at [Atletico] I needed to speak with, and the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream. It's not the time to talk about this. But I also can't hide it. I try to be an honest person."
Atletico Madrid have made their position abundantly clear on numerous occasions — they will not do business with Barcelona.
"The members of Atletico Madrid's Board of Directors have unanimously expressed their full support for the club's decision not to negotiate the transfer of Julian Alvarez to FC Barcelona," Atletico said in a statement.
"The members of the Board of Directors are aware that: Atletico 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."
