Arsenal are reportedly nearing a deal for Blackburn Rovers striker Igor Tyjon, one of three young prospects close to joining the club, while Atletico Madrid have softened their stance on Julian Alvarez's potential departure.
Gunners close in on young trio
The Evening Standard reports that Mikel Arteta's side are closing in on a move for Tyjon worth an initial £1million, with another £2m in possible add-ons. The 18-year-old, who was scheduled for a medical on Friday, has been a long-standing target for Arsenal.
Tyjon has reportedly rejected a professional contract at Blackburn, where he has made three first team appearances, and is expected to join Arsenal's U21 squad, though he will link up with Arteta's side in first team training.
Manchester United prospects linked
The young forward could also be joined by two Manchester United prospects at the north London club. The Evening Standard states that United defender Habeeb Ogunneye, 20, has undergone a medical ahead of joining Arsenal's U21s and training with the senior team. United winger James Scanlon is also nearing a move to the Gunners from Old Trafford.
Arsenal are recruiting from a position of strength after guiding the club to their first league title in 22 years. The Gunners have signed former Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes in midfield, bolstered their wide options with Christos Tzolis, and completed the signing of England centre-back Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa.
Alvarez stance shift
Meanwhile, Atletico Madrid are claimed to have softened their stance on the prospect of Julian Alvarez leaving the club. The Argentine forward has been linked with a move to Arsenal, who reportedly held a meeting in London with Atleti director Mateu Alemany to discuss a possible deal.
Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo reports that Atleti have "agreed" to enter negotiations with Arsenal over a move for Alvarez, marking a shift in the club's stance. However, it is added that the La Liga side have been "very clear" about their unwillingness to discuss a potential deal with Barcelona.
Alvarez has publicly discussed his desire to leave Atleti this season but is reportedly "not keen" on a move to Arsenal, despite the club's change of stance, and still prefers Barcelona. Given the little time Atleti have to find a replacement, Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres is mentioned as a potential solution. However, Alvarez's situation is described as "untenable" with the former Manchester City star refusing to return to the Premier League.
