Arsenal on red alert as Julian Alvarez makes 'request' over move

Updated: 11 Aug 2026 11:07 BST | 4 min read

Matthew Judge | Editor

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Arsenal-linked Julian Alvarez has requested a meeting with Atletico Madrid as he continues to push for a move away, according to reports in Spain.

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BBC Sport understands Arsenal have a long-standing interest in Alvarez, who is regarded as one of the best strikers in the world.

The Gunners face stiff competition from Barcelona, however, with the La Liga giants having had an undisclosed bid rejected by Atletico this summer.

STATS

Julián Álvarez

F (C)

Atlético Madrid

Julián Álvarez

F (C)

Atlético Madrid

49

Games
20

Goals
9

Assists

Atletico, who also turned down a €150million (£130m) offer from Real Madrid in June, insist the Argentina forward will not be sold under any circumstance.

But now Spanish publication SPORT understands Alvarez has asked for a meeting with Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin to discuss his future.

Yet the same outlet understands that request has been turned down, with Atletico refusing to budge on their position.

Alvarez, who is contracted to Atletico until 2030, said he wanted to “fulfil his dream” by leaving the Spanish capital this summer.

While the 26-year-old did not publicly express his wish to join Barcelona, various sources claim they are his preferred destination - not Arsenal.

Hansi Flick’s Barcelona are looking to source a replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who left following the expiration of his contract in June.

Arsenal meanwhile remain in the market for an elite forward after missing out on Vinicius Junior, who is set to sign a new contract with Real.

The Premier League champions were also keen on Morgan Rogers before he joined Chelsea in a club-record €136million (£117m) deal in July.

The Athletic understands Arsenal also hold an interest in signing Paris Saint-Germain attacker Bradley Barcola, who is valued at €170m (£145m).

Alvarez has sparkled for Atletico since joining from Man City

Alvarez has developed a reputation as one of the most complete forwards in Europe since joining Atletico from Manchester City in 2024.

He has registered 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 games for Diego Simeone’s side, though he is yet to win a trophy at the Metropolitano Stadium.

Alvarez free-kick specialist 😮‍💨#UCL pic.twitter.com/9xlNpXa2V3
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) April 8, 2026

Alvarez has also netted 15 times across 59 caps for Argentina, with whom he won the World Cup at Qatar 2022.

Manager Mikel Arteta has pledged Arsenal will do everything they can to make more signings before the transfer window closes.

The north London club have signed Bruno Guimaraes, Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season.

Defender Piero Hincapie has also joined Arsenal after his loan move was turned into a permanent transfer.

When asked if fans could expect more signings after Sunday's 3-2 pre-season loss to Borussia Dortmund, Arteta said: “Well, that's what we're trying to do. If we have the right player in the market to make us much better.”