Julian Alvarez will reportedly push to leave Atletico Madrid this summer, with Arsenal keen on landing the Argentinian. It's claimed, though, the 26-year-old will reiterate his desire to join Barcelona, having previously said it would be his dream to move to the Nou Camp.
Arsenal's Interest and Atletico's Stance
Alvarez is due to return for pre-season training this week, with Arsenal keeping a close eye on developments. Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has been a long-term admirer of the former Manchester City forward, who has racked up 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 appearances for Atletico.
However, the La Liga giants club have stood firm with their stance that Alvarez is not for sale, even after his controversial comments during the World Cup.
Alvarez's Dream and Barcelona's Pursuit
"I spoke with people at the club, with those I had to speak with and the best thing for everyone is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream," he said. "It's not the time to talk about this, but I also can't hide it. I try to be an honest person."
Alvarez has been the subject of bids from both Barcelona and Real Madrid, yet his manager Diego Simeone maintains that nothing has shifted and that Atletico have no plans to sanction his exit.
"The situation is very clear, the club made a decision that Miguel Angel Gil Marin [Atletico's CEO] explained very well," Simeone said. "We are very happy with Julian, from a sporting perspective, we're very happy to have a player like Julian, and we'll help him continue to grow and improve."
Decisive Phase and Potential Crisis
Ahead of his return to Atleti, Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo reports that Alvarez will once again make his desire to join Barcelona abundantly clear, despite having already expressed this both privately and publicly, as the saga enters its 'decisive phase'. This would strongly suggest that Arsenal would be out of the running for his signature should the Spanish giants alter their position.
Atleti have remained resolute thus far, though the Argentine continues to harbour hopes that the club might eventually have a change of heart. The publication warns that 'a major crisis could erupt' between Atleti and the Argentine. It is further reported that should Atletico ease their stance and agree to open talks, Barcelona 'will submit a new offer'.
Nevertheless, Gil Marin has left no doubt that the club will not be entertaining any offers for their prized asset this summer.
"It wasn't the right day to make such statements; it was a day for [Lionel] Messi and the Argentine national team, not Julian," he previously told EFE about Alvarez's comments regarding his desire to leave. "Julian has a dream [to sign elsewhere], but we Atletico fans have dreams, too. It is true that he has spoken to us, but it is also true that he is fully aware of our position because we have been very clear. Atleti do not want to transfer him. He is a great player and we are very proud that he plays for us."
