Arsenal consider Gyökeres swap for Julián Álvarez amid Atlético stance

Arsenal's hopes of signing Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez could depend on whether the Spanish club are willing to consider a player-plus-cash offer involving Viktor Gyökeres, despite public insistence that the Argentina international is not for sale.

The Premier League champions remain in the market for another attacking addition following the arrival of Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge. After missing out on Morgan Rogers, Mikel Arteta is understood to have identified Álvarez as one of his preferred targets.

Reports in Spain claim Arsenal are prepared to offer Viktor Gyökeres along with £51.7 million in an attempt to persuade Atlético Madrid to sell Álvarez.

The proposed deal is said to be under consideration, with Atlético reportedly viewing Gyökeres as a ready-made replacement should Álvarez leave this summer.

The Sweden international only joined Arsenal last year but enjoyed a productive debut campaign, scoring 21 goals in 55 appearances across all competitions as the Gunners secured the Premier League title.

According to the report, Atlético's position could soften if Álvarez continues pushing for a move once he returns from his post-World Cup break.

Barcelona have also been linked with the 26-year-old, but Atlético are unwilling to strengthen one of their direct La Liga rivals.

That leaves Arsenal in a stronger position, while including Gyökeres in the deal would immediately solve any need to recruit a replacement striker before the new season.

Atlético are expected to hold further discussions with Álvarez following Argentina's run to the World Cup final before making any definitive decision.

Despite the speculation, Atlético Madrid chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil has delivered a strong public message that the club have no intention of selling their star forward.

"My position is clear, the club's position is clear. We've made it known to the player, his representatives and the president of Barcelona," Gil said.

"I have absolutely no doubt that Atlético is the right place in the world for Julián, and that Julián is the perfect centre-forward for Atlético Madrid. We want to keep him."

Gil also dismissed suggestions that any transfer fee would change the club's stance.

"We do not want to transfer him. We didn't accept an offer of €100 million, and we won't accept one of €150 million or even €200 million."

Those comments underline Atlético's determination to retain Álvarez, although reports suggest Arsenal believe a creative proposal involving Gyökeres could still test the Spanish club's resolve.

Atlético Madrid are expected to hold talks with Álvarez after his return from international duty before making any final decisions on his future. Arsenal continue to monitor the situation, but any move is likely to depend on whether Atlético are prepared to compromise on their public stance and entertain a player-plus-cash proposal involving Viktor Gyökeres.