Arsenal push for Julián Alvarez as Atlético open transfer talks

Arsenal's pursuit of Julián Alvarez has taken a significant step forward, with Atlético Madrid reportedly willing to negotiate a deal involving €80m plus Viktor Gyökeres.

The major obstacle remains Alvarez himself. The 26-year-old wants to leave Atlético but has so far resisted the prospect of returning to England, despite Mikel Arteta personally attempting to convince him to join Arsenal.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Atlético have softened their previous stance that Alvarez would not be sold.

The Argentine's desire to leave has reportedly made his situation increasingly difficult, leading Atlético to finally open negotiations with Arsenal.

Finding a replacement so late in the window is a problem for Diego Simeone, but Arsenal could offer a solution by including Gyökeres in the operation.

The Swedish striker has reportedly offered himself to several clubs, while Simeone would be willing to bring him to Madrid.

That possibility would allow Atlético to receive a replacement striker immediately while also collecting a substantial transfer fee.

Spanish newspaper Sport goes further, reporting that Arsenal are offering €80m plus Gyökeres for Alvarez.

The Gunners are also said to be prepared to offer the Argentina international a gross salary of around €25m per year, potentially doubling his current earnings.

Sport claims that “all signs point to England”, but an agreement still depends on Alvarez changing his position.

His preference has been to join Barcelona, and he currently has reservations about returning to the Premier League after spending two years at Manchester City between 2022 and 2024.

Arteta has nevertheless continued to push. The Arsenal manager reportedly contacted Alvarez personally again this week in an attempt to convince him of the important role he would have at the Emirates.

From Atlético's perspective, an Arsenal agreement could solve several problems at once.

They would receive a significant fee, add Gyökeres to Simeone's attack and move on a player who reportedly wants to leave.

Atlético sporting director Mateu Alemany is already in London as he works on a potential move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. The supplied reporting suggests talks with Arsenal over Alvarez could also take place during his trip.

For now, however, the final decision belongs to the player.

Arsenal and Atlético now appear to have the basis for serious negotiations, but Alvarez must give his approval before a transfer can progress. With the deadline approaching, his decision could determine whether Arsenal's ambitious late move succeeds.

Should Julián Alvarez reconsider his stance and join Arsenal if Atlético accept the €80m plus Gyökeres proposal?