Arsenal given major Julian Alvarez boost as Atletico refuse rivals sale

Cameron Smith

• 12 Mar 2026 13:01 CDT
• 3 min read

News

Arsenal have been handed a major boost in their bid to sign Julian Alvarez following reports that Atletico Madrid will not sell the forward to Barcelona this summer.

Alvarez, 26, has been earmarked as one of Arsenal’s priority transfer targets ahead of next season and Mikel Arteta’s side are expected to challenge for his signature as they look to land a new centre forward amid Viktor Gyokeres’ struggles this year.

The Argentina international has scored 45 goals and provided 15 assists in 98 appearances since his move to Atletico Madrid in 2024, and he is widely regarded as one of the best strikers in world football.

Barcelona have also been heavily linked with a move for the 26-year-old, although Spanish publication Sport claim that Atletico Madrid have no intention of selling Alvarez to their La Liga rivals.

It’s reported that Atleti officials are frustrated by Barcelona’s public pursuit of the Argentina centre forward and the Blaugrana have been informed that a move will almost be impossible to finalise this summer.

Arsenal are therefore now regarded as the frontrunners to sign Alvarez, although Atletico Madrid will demand a fee close to €150 million to sanction a sale this summer, as per Sport.

Julian Alvarez responds to transfer speculation

News that Atletico Madrid won’t sell Alvarez to Barcelona comes after the 26-year-old added further fuel to speculation he could leave the Wanda Metropolitano this summer.

Speaking after Atleti’s 5-2 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday night, Alvarez refused to rule out the possibility of an exit ahead of the 2026-27 season.

“I don’t know, I don’t know, but maybe yes, maybe no. You never know. But I’m very happy here,” the former Manchester City striker admitted when asked if he will still be an Atletico Madrid player next year.

“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, the people also showed me their affection, so I’m very happy.”

When asked about rumoured interest from Barcelona, Alvarez added: “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 the competitions.”

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