The futures of Victor Osimhen and Julian Alvarez could be entwined with Arsenal’s chase for the Argentina international set to be impacted as tension continues between Barcelona and Atletico Madrid
Barcelona have rejected the opportunity to make a move for Victor Osimhen as their attention remains focused on Julian Alvarez. Atletico Madrid have suggested that the Argentina international is not for sale but the Catalan club have yet to give up hope.
Barca’s insistence spells bad news for Arsenal’s hopes of securing Alvarez’s signature, with the forward said to be keen to move to Camp Nou. The 26-year-old has also been linked to Paris Saint-Germain.
La Liga champions Barcelona were offered Galatasaray star Osimhen via intermediaries, per SPORT. But Hansi Flick’s side do not consider the Nigeria international as a priority option to strengthen the club, and they remain committed to sporting director Deco’s plan.
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Osimhen has three years remaining on his contract in Turkey and is said to be worth £64.8million. The 27-year-old scored 22 goals in 33 appearances across the Turkish Super Lig and Champions League last term.
While Barcelona do not appear to have much interest, Atletico have been linked with the striker. Osimhen was complimentary of the side earlier this year.
“I like them,” he said. “I’ve always been a fan of their coach. I’ve met him a couple of times. They play aggressively and have a strong identity.”
Such a move would indicate that Alvarez could yet be available, though club president Enrique Cerezo has been firm in his assertion that Alvarez was not for sale.
“Julian Alvarez is an Atlético de Madrid player and not just for this season but for many others,” he said. “We work continuously to bring the best players to our team.
“And until August when the league starts, there’s still a lot of time to search, see, and bring them in.”
Barcelona appear to remain confident despite Atletico’s reluctance to do a deal for Alvarez. The Blaugrana anticipated as much and now intend to offer some days of respite to see how the situation develops.
For the moment, they have no intention of exploring alternatives unless an unexpected turn in the chase for Alvarez arises. Atletico’s preference would be for Alvarez to join PSG over Barcelona, leading to some tension in Spain’s capital.
Atletico are already said to have rejected a £86.4m bid, and want £129.6m to part ways with their star player.
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