Mikel Arteta’s side have considered the possibility of using Gyokeres as a bargaining chip to sign Alvarez from Atletico Madrid
Premier League champions Arsenal retain a long-standing interest in Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez – and it has now been reported the Gunners have explored the possibility of offering Viktor Gyokeres to the Spanish side as part of a deal for the Argentine.
Alvarez, who is set to star in the World Cup semi-final this evening, declared a few weeks ago in the United States that he is seeking a move away from the Spanish capital and urged his club to negotiate with any potential suitors.
While Barcelona are understood to be Alvarez’s preferred destination, Atletico are reluctant to do business with their La Liga rivals.
Barcelona are understood to have offered Ferran Torres plus cash for the 26-year-old, but Atletico rejected the proposal – potentially paving the way for a move from the Spanish capital to north London, with Arsenal keen to wrap up a deal should the opportunity arise.
The Gunners are huge admirers of Alvarez and, according to eSPORTY, recently explored the possibility of including Gyokeres as a makeweight during initial talks with Atletico Madrid.
Gyokeres joined Arsenal just a year ago and was tipped to be the man to solve Mikel Arteta’s long-standing search for a reliable number nine.
Now 12 months on, however, the north London club appear to have resumed that search amid links with Alvarez. Arsenal have also been linked with Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola this summer, and it remains to be seen if the European champions will sell the 23-year-old.
Gyokeres made 55 appearances for Arsenal last season, scoring 21 goals in all competitions and helping Mikel Arteta’s side win the Premier League for the first 22 years.
At times, however, the Swede has looked unconvincing and remains some way short of the finished product that Alvarez would represent.
Despite his inconsistencies, Gyokeres finished the campaign as Arsenal’s top scorer in the Premier League, and many believe he will improve greatly in his second season at the Emirates.
With regards to Alvarez, Argentine outlet Clarin has claimed that Mikel Arteta’s side are following every movement concerning Alvarez’s future, and will position themselves as a credible alternative should Barcelona be unable to strike a deal.
Whether Gyökeres will be used to enhance any potential offer is another matter. Arsenal paid close to £55million for the Swede last summer and would likely be reluctant to admit that investment was misplaced by reducing him to a bargaining chip in their pursuit of another – albeit more accomplished – striker.
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