£129m La Liga star changes stance towards Arsenal transfer proposal
Julian Alvarez is reportedly open to joining Arsenal in a significant development for the Gunners, although the Atletico Madrid forward still has reservations about returning to the Premier League.
Arsenal’s pursuit has gathered momentum after Atletico softened their previous stance that the Argentina international was unavailable and became willing to negotiate with the Premier League champions.
Spanish journalist Pedro Morata now reports that Alvarez is receptive to Arsenal’s proposal but retains “many doubts” as he considers whether to remain in Madrid or pursue a move to north London.
Morata claims the 26-year-old is expected to decide whether to stay at Atletico or give the green light for negotiations with Arsenal, potentially making his position decisive to the deal.
The development represents progress for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who has spoken personally with Alvarez during the summer in an attempt to convince him of the club’s project.
Alvarez had previously favoured remaining in Spain and had been heavily attracted by the possibility of joining Barcelona, making Arsenal’s task particularly difficult despite their persistent interest.
However, Morata reports that Barcelona have now ruled themselves out of the race, potentially removing Alvarez’s preferred alternative if he decides his Atletico career should end.
There are still considerable financial differences to overcome.
According to Morata, Arsenal are prepared to offer €120 million (£103m), while Atletico are demanding €150m (£129m) to sanction the departure of one of their most important players.
Atletico have also reportedly offered Alvarez improved terms in an attempt to convince him to remain, providing the forward with another significant option as he considers his future.
Atletico’s preference for Arsenal over Barcelona has been apparent for some time because they would rather send the striker abroad than strengthen a direct La Liga rival.
Alvarez already has extensive experience of English football after spending two seasons at Manchester City, winning the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup before moving to Atletico in 2024.
His versatility across the frontline and proven goalscoring ability explain why Arsenal have maintained their interest despite the enormous financial commitment required.
There remains no guarantee that Alvarez will choose Arsenal, particularly given the doubts he reportedly holds over returning to England.
However, his apparent willingness to consider Arteta’s project represents another important step forward, with the player’s decision now potentially determining whether Arsenal can push ahead with one of the biggest transfers of the summer.
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