As Premier League giants Arsenal cast their eyes towards potential summer reinforcements, Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez has emerged as a prime candidate following an impressive showcase against Tottenham in the Champions League.
The Argentine forward, who netted twice in Tuesday’s thrilling encounter at the Wanda Metropolitano, has left the door ajar for a move away from Madrid by failing to confirm his future at the club beyond this season. Following the match, which saw Atletico prevail in a seven-goal spectacle, Alvarez was non-committal when asked about remaining with Atletico.
“I don’t know, I don’t know, but maybe yes, maybe no. You never know. But I’m very happy here,” he remarked. “You ask me a question that will end up all over the place, but I’m happy. I’m thinking about the day-to-day, I’m working to improve, to give my best here. I never said anything bad about the club; I’m very grateful.”
Despite his affection for Atletico, Alvarez avoided discussing the interest from Barcelona, stating, “I have nothing to say. These are things that are said on social media. A lot of things are said, but everyone posts their opinion and it just snowballs. I’m happy here, very content, and competing in all competitions.”
Arsenal’s longstanding interest in the 26-year-old, dating back to his time at Manchester City, could intensify if Alvarez becomes available. However, they are not alone in the pursuit, as Barcelona president Joan Laporta has expressed a commitment to acquiring the striker if he is re-elected.
Laporta commented on the player’s potential fit for the Catalan club, saying, “Julian Alvarez is not a player who will break the bank. He’s an excellent player who, they say, would fit perfectly into Barca’s system, but he’s not a player you have to pay a fortune for.”
He added, “First, he should demonstrate his willingness to come, which is what we want from all the players who might interest us, and it should be at a reasonable price then, it could be considered. But, given his current demands, they’re out of line.”
Alvarez’s agent, Fernando Hidalgo, has continually denied any ongoing discussions regarding a potential transfer, despite speculation. The former Manchester City player joined Atletico in August 2024 for a reported fee of up to £82 million including add-ons, with his contract set to run until the summer of 2030.
Spanish outlets have previously suggested that Hidalgo was seen in London, even attending Arsenal’s recent Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea, further fueling transfer rumors.
