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 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 is 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.
Atletico Madrid refuse to sell Julian Alvarez to Barcelona
News that Atletico Madrid will not 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.”
Julian Alvarez responds to Barcelona transfer speculation
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.”
His comments suggest he remains open to the possibility of leaving Atletico Madrid despite expressing contentment.
Arsenal will interpret his refusal to commit long-term as encouragement to pursue a deal. The Gunners need a proven goalscorer following Gyokeres’ underwhelming first season in England.
Arsenal emerge as frontrunners for Alvarez signature
Atletico Madrid’s stance against selling to Barcelona significantly improves Arsenal’s chances.
The Spanish club will not strengthen a direct rival but may be willing to negotiate with a Premier League side for the right price. And while that €150 million valuation represents a significant investment but Alvarez’s track record justifies such a fee.
Arsenal possess the financial resources to compete for his signature.
Mikel Arteta views Alvarez as the ideal profile to lead the attack for years to come. His experience winning major trophies with Manchester City and Argentina makes him a proven winner.
Whether Arsenal meet Atletico Madrid’s asking price will determine if this transfer progresses beyond speculation into serious negotiations during the summer window.
