Arsenal have emerged as the leading contenders to sign Julian Alvarez this summer after Atletico Madrid confirmed they have no intention of selling him to Barcelona.
The Argentine has spent much of the summer attempting to engineer a transfer, but his efforts have so far proved fruitless. He said in an interview at the World Cup that leaving the club would suit all parties, and he is reported to have set his heart on a move to Barcelona. He also failed to report for training on Wednesday and Thursday, with the club citing a stomach bug.
Atletico's firm stance
A new statement issued by the club's board of directors suggests the Gunners may soon be his only option, as they throw their 'unanimous' support behind the club's refusal to negotiate with La Liga rivals Barcelona.
The statement read: "Atlético de Madrid is open to standard transfer market negotiations when conducted in a professional, ethical and respectful manner. We fully stand behind the club's previously communicated position that FC Barcelona failed to meet these requirements and, as a result, there will not be any negotiation and there is zero consideration of an Alvarez transfer to Barcelona."
It also added a pointed message to Alvarez himself: "Atlético de Madrid trust that our player will understand the decision and will remain focused on helping the club achieve its goals, just as he has done during the two seasons he has been defending our colours."
Arsenal's interest and obstacles
The statement follows the club telling Spanish newspaper Marca there was a "0 per cent chance of selling (Alvarez) to Barca." Barcelona's president Joan Laporta has confirmed the club are "very interested" in signing Alvarez, for whom they have already seen bids rejected.
Arsenal are also interested in signing Alvarez, who reportedly has reservations about returning to the UK due to visa issues which might prevent his family from moving with or visiting him. More recent reports, though, claim the player is coming around to the idea of joining Arsenal.
The Gunners are put off, though, by the knowledge of his desire to join Barcelona. They are monitoring the player's situation, and Mikel Arteta is known to be a big fan of Alvarez and is said to have kept constant contact with him throughout this summer.
The ball is now in Arsenal's court as they weigh up whether to move for the Argentine, who hit eight league goals last season.
