World Cup winner turns down Arsenal after speaking directly with Mikel Arteta
Arsenal have suffered a major blow in their pursuit of an elite centre-forward, with their preferred target seemingly shutting the door on a move.
The Gunners are keen to lure Julian Alvarez away from Atletico Madrid this summer as they look to add even more firepower to their attack.
However, journalist David Ornstein has revealed that Alvarez has already spoken directly to Mikel Arteta and turned down the opportunity to move to the Emirates Stadium.
Ornstein said: “There is a low chance that Julian Alvarez comes to Arsenal. He’s spoken to Mikel Arteta & said he doesn’t want to come.
“That could change, but it is not developing. If they don’t get him, maybe they stick with what they’ve got.”
Atletico Madrid are reportedly willing to negotiate with Arsenal, but the Spanish club cannot force through a deal without convincing the World Cup winner to make the move.
Arsenal should abandon Alvarez pursuit
Arsenal should now seriously consider walking away from the Alvarez pursuit rather than wasting valuable time chasing a player who has already made his preference clear.
The former Manchester City star is desperate to join Barcelona this summer.
However, Atletico have publicly confirmed they will not negotiate with the Catalan giants over Alvarez.
Arsenal should not pursue a player who does not want to join them, particularly when the asking price could reportedly exceed £120 million.
Even if the Gunners managed to bring him to London, questions over his desire to eventually join Barcelona would likely follow him throughout his time at the club.
Arsenal already possess a formidable attacking squad, with Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres capable of sharing the workload up front.
Gabriel Jesus is expected to leave the Emirates before the summer transfer deadline.
Rather than continuing their pursuit of Alvarez, Arsenal should turn their attention towards a statement winger capable of challenging Christos Tzolis for the starting role on the left.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
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