Julian Alvarez saga takes fresh twist as Arsenal learn Barcelona intentions

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Matthew Judge | Editor

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.

STATS

Julián Alvarez

F (C)

Atlético Madrid

Julián Alvarez

F (C)

Atlético Madrid

All Tournaments

2025/26

• 49

  Games

• 20

  Goals

• 9

  Assists

View all stats

Premier League champions Arsenal are also keen to land Alvarez but the 26-year-old is widely believed to favour a move to Hansi Flick’s side.

Alvarez was whistled after making his return for Atletico

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” at the World Cup this summer.

Barcelona have identified the former Manchester City attacker as their ideal replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who left at the end of last season.

Arsenal meanwhile are looking to solidify their chances of retaining their Premier League title by making a marquee addition to their frontline.

BBC Sport understands the Gunners are ready to pounce for Alvarez if he indicates a willingness to join them, rather than hold out for Barcelona.

Mikel Arteta’s side have also been credited with an interest in Juventus ace Kenan Yildiz but Alvarez is thought to be their dream signing.

Alvarez is regarded as one of the best strikers in the world

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

He has registered 49 goals and 17 assists in 107 games for Diego Simeone’s side, though he is yet to win a trophy at the Metropolitano Stadium.

Alvarez has also netted 15 times across 59 caps for Argentina, with whom he won the World Cup at Qatar 2022. He also helped them reach this summer’s showpiece in North America.

The attacker is contracted to Atletico until 2030 and has a release clause worth a staggering €500million (£427.4m).