Arsenal have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez ahead of the summer transfer window.
Barcelona have been linked with the Argentine international for some time, but a new report from AS claims the Spanish giants have no plans to offer a premium for the 26-year-old.
That development leaves Arsenal as the most credible potential destination for Alvarez, who has continued to attract attention from Europe’s biggest clubs this summer.
Real Madrid had a €150 million offer rejected by Atletico Madrid, underscoring just how determined Diego Simeone’s side are to hold onto their prized asset.
Arsenal’s interest in Alvarez is well established, and the club are weighing whether to make a formal approach for the striker in the coming weeks.
The 26-year-old posted impressive numbers last season, contributing 20 goals and nine assists to cement his status as one of Europe’s most reliable forwards.
His ability to both score and create makes him an attractive proposition for Arsenal, who are looking to add more firepower and creativity to their attack.
Atletico Madrid have made their position clear, stating they have no intention of selling Alvarez, meaning any interested party would need to present an extraordinary offer to change that stance.
Arsenal have won the Premier League title and are aiming to build on that success, with top additions seen as essential to maintaining dominance in English football.
Alvarez already has Premier League experience, having represented Manchester City before his move to Atletico Madrid, which could help him settle quickly at the London club.
The report suggests that with Barcelona stepping back from the race, Arsenal now hold a stronger position as a potential destination than they did just weeks ago.
Whether Arsenal are willing to meet Atletico’s considerable valuation remains the central question, but the landscape surrounding this transfer has clearly shifted in their favour.
