Julian Alvarez has issued a clear update on his Atletico Madrid future amid transfer interest from Arsenal and Barcelona
Arsenal transfer target Julian Alvarez has confirmed he wants to leave Atletico Madrid this summer.
The Gunners are of many clubs linked to the striker with Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid both seeing bids rejected and now Alvarez has gone public with his desire to seal a move.
Speaking to ESPN, he said: “The best thing for me is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream. I don’t want to hide or act like I don’t want to be clear. I try to be honest. I spoke to Atletico people and I think the best for everyone involved is for me to leave.”
Barca saw an offer turned down by Atletico earlier this month but they are expected to return with an improved proposal.
Quite the public spat has played out between the two La Liga rivals with Atletico releasing several statements on the matter declaring their anger.
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football.london understands, per sources involved in the secret talks that took place with Barcelona at the Torre Melina hotel in late May, Arsenal have already pushed hard to sign Alvarez this summer behind the scenes.
Politely, they were told by the player’s representatives that he is desperate to join Barcelona and have since focused their efforts on other targets.
They currently appear to be actively pursuing Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers which suggests the 26-year-old will remain in Spain for the coming seasons.
Real Madrid also saw their record-breaking offer turned down and have subsequently switched to prioritising a midfielder.
Ayyoub Bouaddi will certainly be on their radar with Arsenal also among the many European clubs interested. He has impressed for Morocco at the World Cup after a strong season with Lille.
The futures of Bouaddi, Rogers and Alvarez, along with any other targets out in the United States, will all likely be clarified after the tournament ends in mid-July.
Argentina, England and Morocco are all capable of going far in the World Cup which could give teams limited time to sanction deals.
For Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola is another target with a set of transfer dominos involving Yan Diomande and Liverpool plausible.
A switch to Anfield for the latter is possible but PSG are also in the race and the European champions winning the race for his signature could see Barcola become available.
