Arsenal Transfer News Today: Alvarez jeered, Barcola update, €70m sale on the cards

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Matthew Judge | Editor

FootballTransfers runs through the latest Arsenal transfer news on 23 August, including fresh updates on Julian Alvarez, Bradley Barcola and Gabriel Martinelli.

Arsenal target Alvarez jeered on Atletico return

Arsenal target Julian Alvarez was heavily jeered by Atletico Madrid supporters after making his return in Sunday’s draw with Villarreal.

Alvarez, who is a top target for both Arsenal and Barcelona, said he wanted to leave Atletico in order to “fulfil his dream” in June.

However, the La Liga side continue to insist the 26-year-old, widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world, will not be sold at any price.

Alvarez, who missed Atletico’s league opener against Malaga on Wednesday, was named as a substitute ahead of the clash against Villarreal.

The Argentina star was then met with a chorus of boos from the Atletico fans after he emerged from the bench in the second half.

Alvarez did not join his team-mates in embracing the Atletico fanbase after the match ended 2-2 at the Metropolitano Stadium.

However, an alternative video circulating on social media suggested he may have been advised not to go over to the Atletico fans - something Diego Simeone later confirmed.

Arsenal learn Liverpool position on Barcola

Arsenal have learned Liverpool are confident of striking a deal to sign Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola, according to BBC Sport.

The two Premier League clubs are looking to strengthen their forward lines this summer, with Barcola on both of their shortlists.

However, BBC Sport understands Liverpool are now optimistic of concluding a deal with Champions League holders PSG for Barcola.

The 23-year-old, who has developed a reputation as one of the best wingers in the world, is valued at a staggering €170million (£145.3m).

Gunners in talks to sell Martinelli to Saudi Pro League

Arsenal are in talks with Al Hilal over a deal to sell Gabriel Martinelli to the Saudi Pro League side, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein.

Ornstein understands the Gunners have placed a €70m (£60m) valuation on Martinelli, who is open to moving to the Middle East.

The 25-year-old turned down a move to Galatasaray earlier this summer after Arsenal received a €45m (£38.4m) bid from the Turkish giants.

Brazil winger Martinelli has just one year left on his Arsenal contract, though the club hold an option to extend by a further 12 months.

Napoli identify alternative striker to Jesus

Napoli are interested in signing Chelsea forward Marc Guiu but they have concerns over his €29m (£25m) valuation, according to reports in Italy.

Corriere Dello Sport claims Napoli have identified Guiu as an alternative to Arsenal ace Gabriel Jesus, who is their primary attacking target.

However, Massimiliano Allegri's side will struggle to afford either striker unless they offload a host of players this summer.

Napoli are reportedly looking to raise funds by selling Noa Lang, Jens Cajuste, Jesper Lindstrom, Lorenzo Lucca, Walid Cheddira, Nosa Obaretin and Pasquale Mazzocchi.

Leipzig make bid for Arsenal target Fernandez-Pardo

RB Leipzig have made a €35million (£29.9m) bid to sign Arsenal-linked Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille, according to Fabrizio Romano.

French newspaper L’Equipe reported in July that Mikel Arteta’s side were considering the merits of the 21-year-old winger.

But now transfer insider Romano understands Bundesliga side Leipzig have launched a bid for Fernandez-Pardo, who wants to leave Lille this summer.

Belgium international Fernandez-Pardo recorded eight goals and five assists in 29 Ligue 1 appearances for Lille last season.

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