Arsenal learn reduced asking price for Julian Alvarez, Atletico won’t sell to Barcelona
Atletico Madrid have set a fresh asking price for Arsenal target Julian Alvarez, according to Bolavip.
The Argentine has made up his mind to leave the Madrid giants, but the club’s hierarchy are adamant that he won’t be sold to Barcelona before the transfer deadline on September 1.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta talked up the possibility of signing the 26-year-old earlier today, but Atletico have made it clear that there is zero percent chance of that happening.
Bolavip now reveal that manager Diego Simeone has opened the door for Alvarez’s exit.
Atletico were previously looking for at least £128.3 million to sell the World Cup winner, but Bolavip claim that the La Liga heavyweights are prepared to sanction his sale for £111.4m.
Simeone’s side have completely closed the door on negotiating with Barcelona. They are prepared to accept offers elsewhere, and it is specifically mentioned that ‘Arsenal want him’.
Arsenal still need to change Alvarez’s transfer stance
The former Manchester City man has been a consistent performer for Atletico since he arrived in the summer of 2024. He made 37 goal contributions in his debut campaign before managing 29 last term.
Alvarez had a limited impact in La Liga last season, but stepped up in the Champions League with 14 goal involvements from just 15 appearances. He scored a sublime free-kick against the Blaugrana.
In our view, the River Plate graduate would be an upgrade for the Gunners in the final third. He is a mobile centre-forward who can also drop into a number 10 position to create quality chances.
Alvarez can also operate as a wide attacking player. If he joins the Gunners, there is a possibility that Viktor Gyokeres could be sold. The Swede was an unused substitute against Coventry City in the Premier League curtain-raiser, and he is open to joining Barcelona before the deadline.
There is also the prospect of Gyokeres staying alongside Alvarez and Kai Havertz.
This would probably mean Alvarez could play a different role, either as a left winger or as a left-sided number 10 if manager Mikel Arteta does not pick him to lead the line. Based on his average position last term, he was more of a playmaker.
For now, Arsenal are yet to find a breakthrough with the player. Alvarez is still determined to move to Barcelona and has not changed his position. If his stance changes, the Gunners could enter formal negotiations with Atletico for a transfer before Tuesday’s 11pm BST deadline.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com
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