Arsenal Transfer News Today: Alvarez red flag, Lewis-Skelly update, youngster signs

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Matthew Judge | Editor

FootballTransfers runs through the latest Arsenal transfer news on 25 August, including fresh updates on Julian Alvarez and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Arsenal learn Barcelona’s intentions over Alvarez

Arsenal have learned Barcelona are prepared to wait for Julian Alvarez as they have no intention of signing a stop-gap striker, according to reports.

Spanish publication SPORT understands Alvarez remains Barcelona’s top target after failing to find a suitable alternative to the Atletico Madrid star.

Barcelona have chased Alvarez all summer but La Liga counterparts Atletico are refusing to sell their prize asset to one of their domestic rivals.

Premier League champions Arsenal are also keen to land Alvarez and are ready to pounce if he signals his interest in moving to north London.

Are the Gunners right to make Alvarez their top target?

FootballTransfers’ Paul Macdonald has taken a look at whether Arsenal are right to make Alvarez their dream signing before the transfer window closes.

Alvarez’s future has become the saga of the summer, with the forward having been heavily booed on his return to the Atletico side last Sunday.

The Argentina international was jeered by the Atletico supporters when appearing as a second-half substitute in the 2-2 La Liga draw with Villarreal.

Atletico fans have not forgiven Alvarez after he said he wanted to leave the club in order to “fulfil my dream” during the World Cup this summer.

Lewis-Skelly to stay as Arteta puts his foot down

Myles Lewis-Skelly is set to stay at Arsenal after Mikel Arteta made it clear he wants to keep hold of the midfielder, FootballTransfers’ Steve Kay understands.

Transfer reporter Kay understands Arteta intervened in talks with Manchester United over a move for the 19-year-old, who can also operate at left-back.

Lewis-Skelly has become a key fixture in Arsenal’s midfield of late, playing an important role in them winning the Premier League title last season.

He has also started the opening two games of the 2026-27 campaign, registering a superb assist in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City.

Arsenal reportedly reject AC Milan offer for Nwaneri

Arsenal have turned down an offer from AC Milan for attacking midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, according to reports in Italy.

Calciomercato claims Milan wanted to sign Nwaneri on loan with an option to buy at the end of the season - something the Gunners have rejected out of hand.

Speculation continues to swirl regarding the future of Nwaneri, who has slipped down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium.

However, Arsenal boss Arteta praised the 19-year-old’s growing maturity following the pre-season clash with Como earlier this month.

PL champions sign Northern Ireland youngster for academy

Arsenal have reached an agreement with Larne FC to sign Northern Ireland under-17 international Phoenix Blayney for their academy setup.

The Belfast-born goalkeeper, who is just 15 years old, will initially join the Gunners as part of their 2027/28 scholar intake.

Arsenal have also announced Blayney has put pen to paper on a pre-contract agreement that will lead to him signing professional terms with the Premier League champions.

Blayney has represented Northern Ireland in qualifying for the UEFA Euro Under-17 competition, while he also featured for Larne’s U16s and U18s teams.

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