Julian Alvarez is coming around to the idea of joining Arsenal this summer after talks with Mikel Arteta, according to reports in Spain. The long-running transfer saga has dominated the window, with Arsenal known to be keen on the player as they look to strengthen their front line after failing to convince Vinicius Junior of a move to north London.
Relationship with Atletico sours
The relationship between Alvarez and Atletico is starting to grow unsavoury as the player continues to posture for a move away from Madrid, and he is desperate to leave the Metropolitano. Speaking on Saturday, head coach Diego Simeone insisted Alvarez would not leave the club this summer, doubling down on earlier comments from Atletico’s CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin, who has claimed the striker has been poorly advised this summer.
Arsenal emerge as viable option
Simeone said he expects the player to feature in Sunday’s meeting with Villarreal, but new reports suggest that may be unlikely. Diario AS reports this saga has left Alvarez increasingly unsettled, and he remains desperate to leave before the transfer deadline. Arsenal seem to be emerging as his most viable option.
Alvarez likes the idea of moving to Barcelona, and the Blaugrana remain interested, but Atletico do not want to sell to a domestic rival. Thus, Alvarez is said to be softening his stance on returning to England, with ‘the door left ajar’ to Arsenal.
Arteta and Berta in constant contact
Diario also report that Arteta and Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta have remained in constant contact with Alvarez throughout the summer in a bid to convince him of the move. He is said to be put off a return to England, though, given his preference to remain nearer his family.
