Manchester City have made initial enquiries into a stunning move to re-sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid, potentially hijacking Arsenal's pursuit of the striker.
Alvarez left the Etihad Stadium after two-and-a-half years in Manchester, joining Atletico for £82 million. His future in the Spanish capital has been in doubt throughout the summer, with Barcelona and Arsenal eager to sign him.
Alvarez's Preference and Atletico's Stance
A move to the Camp Nou remains Alvarez's clear preference, but Atletico are adamant that move won't happen, refusing to do business with the Catalan giants. Atletico are willing to sell to Arsenal, who remain interested in taking the 26-year-old to the Emirates in a deal that could be worth a staggering €150 million (£130m).
Alvarez missed training for a third consecutive day on Friday, having been booed off the pitch by his own fans last Sunday. Amid a tense stand-off between Alvarez and Atletico, with Arsenal and Barcelona watching on from the sidelines, City have entered the race in a stunning development to the saga.
City's Move and Potential Challenges
Marca report that Enzo Maresca's side are exploring the move and have made initial enquiries into a reunion with the Argentine in the final days of the transfer window. A loan arrangement has been suggested by the publication, although negotiations between the clubs are still to begin.
Alvarez's only options as it stands are to leave the Estadio Metropolitano for the Premier League or reconcile with Atletico. The report states, however, that City could face the same challenges as Arsenal, with Alvarez very reluctant to return to England.
