Julian Alvarez will be one of the hottest properties in Europe when the summer transfer window opens and Arsenal are expected to be one of the teams in the hat
Atletico Madrid have told Arsenal transfer target Julian Alvarez to make a decision on his future sooner rather than later. Football.london understands the Gunners hold an interest in the World Cup winner ahead of the summer transfer window.
Alvarez, 26, has also been linked with a move to Chelsea, Barcelona and this weekend’s Champions League final opponents Paris Saint-Germain. His future at the Wanda Metropolitano is looking brief, with Atletico boss Diego Simeone admitting he believes the Argentine has already made his decision.
In addition to this, it’s been claimed Atletico have informed Alvarez they do not want to be stuck in transfer limbo on August 14th or 15th, when the new La Liga campaign gets underway. This date effectively acts as a deadline for Arsenal to act on their transfer interest in the ex-Manchester City forward.
Speaking on Radio Marca, Spanish reporter Roberto Gomez has claimed the Spanish heavyweights have already sent a clear message to Alvarez and his representatives. Gomez said: “Atlético de Madrid has issued an ultimatum to Julián Álvarez.”
In another message which sounds like it’s as much for Arsenal as it is for the striker, Gomez added: “If you have an offer, make it now. Don’t wait here until August 14th or 15th at midnight.”
Speaking to Movistar, Simeone offered a blunt response when asked about Alvarez’s future. The Argentine said: “It’s not a question for me, it’s a question for Julian. He’s old enough to know what he’s going to do, and I imagine he’s already made his decision.”
Back in April, he also said: “I’m not inside Julian Alvarez’s head. It’s normal that an extraordinary player like Julian Alvarez is wanted by Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona. It’s normal because he’s very good.”
Alvarez moved to Atletico from City two seasons ago for around £81.5m. He has since contributed 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 appearances in all competitions for Simeone’s side.
It’s understood by Marca, Alvarez has already rejected an £8.63m contract extension and has no intention of extending his deal. However, he may be difficult to prise out of the club, as his contract does not expire until 2030.
Moreover, he also has a £431.6m buyout clause in his Atletico deal, but if the Spaniards decide to sell him, the transfer fee, while still sizeable, will be significantly less.
Marca have also stated Alvarez is particularly keen on a move to Barcelona, but with the Catalans regularly finding themselves struggling to cough up huge transfer fees, it may be difficult for Hansi Flick’s side to make a move for the South American.
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