Arsenal are emerging as Julián Álvarez’s only realistic route out of Atlético Madrid, but the Gunners still face a major challenge convincing the Argentine striker to move to London.
Reports in Spain claim Álvarez is beginning to reconsider Arsenal after accepting Atlético have no intention of allowing him to join Barcelona.
However, information from Argentina suggests Álvarez has already rejected Mikel Arteta’s approach, despite Arsenal being prepared to offer a package potentially worth €135m (£117m).
Arsenal door opens for Julián Álvarez
According to Marca, the relationship between Álvarez and Atlético has become increasingly strained.
His family, normally present at Atlético home matches, did not attend Monday's game at the Metropolitano. Álvarez also left before his teammates returned to the dressing room, with Diego Simeone confirming the club wanted to prevent him being exposed to the ultras.
The situation developed further on Wednesday when Álvarez informed Atlético he had endured a difficult night and was not fit enough to train.
Against that backdrop, Arsenal are increasingly being viewed as his only viable exit route.
Marca claims Álvarez is now seriously considering a move to Arsenal for perhaps the first time, having previously resisted the possibility.
Arsenal prepared huge €135m package
There is one significant problem: Arsenal apparently already tried to convince him.
Argentine journalist Ariel Senosiain claims Álvarez rejected an approach from Arteta, despite Arsenal being prepared to pay €125m (£108m) plus another €10m (£9m) in bonuses.
That would create a potential €135m (£117m) package, which Atlético were reportedly prepared to accept.
The issue therefore appears to be convincing the player rather than reaching an agreement with Atlético.
A family matter has also complicated the situation. According to Senosiain, problems involving visas for Álvarez’s parents contributed to his preference to remain in Spain.
Arsenal, though, are reportedly prepared to wait.
Barcelona transfer increasingly unlikely
Álvarez has not completely abandoned hopes of joining Barcelona.
The striker is reportedly hoping the Catalan club could make a late move before the deadline, but Atlético appear determined to prevent him strengthening a direct domestic rival.
That stance could ultimately work heavily in Arsenal's favour.
If Álvarez decides he must leave Atlético this summer and Barcelona remains unavailable, Arsenal could effectively become his last major option.
Key Points
- Arsenal are being presented in Spain as Julián Álvarez’s only realistic exit option.
- The Gunners were reportedly prepared to offer €125m plus €10m in bonuses.
- Atlético were willing to accept the package, but Álvarez initially rejected Arteta’s approach.
- Barcelona remains Álvarez’s preferred possibility, although Atlético are determined not to sell him there.
- Family visa complications have also influenced the Argentine's reluctance to move to England.
What’s Next?
The decisive factor is now Álvarez himself.
Arsenal appear willing to wait, while Atlético's refusal to negotiate with Barcelona significantly limits the striker's alternatives. If Álvarez ultimately decides he needs a move before the deadline, the door to the Emirates could suddenly become much more attractive.
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