Arsenal Running Out of Time to Sign Julián Álvarez as Barcelona Preferred

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, September 1, 2026

Arsenal face increasing challenges to sign Julián Álvarez, who prefers a move to Barcelona despite Atlético Madrid's reluctance to sell to a league rival. With significant sales already made, Arsenal continue to pursue squad reinforcements and monitor alternative targets as the transfer window closes.

Arsenal face mounting pressure to complete a deal for Julián Álvarez as the transfer window nears its deadline, with the Argentina international reportedly favoring a move to Barcelona over a return to the Premier League. The Gunners have recently agreed to sell Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Fábio Vieira in combined deals valued at more than £70 million, signaling significant activity on the club’s transfer front.

Álvarez, who joined Atlético Madrid from Manchester City in 2024, has been left out of Atlético’s squad for their recent win against Sevilla but returned to training on Sunday. Despite Atlético’s firm stance against selling to a La Liga rival, the forward is understood to be determined to join Barcelona. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is said to have spoken directly to Álvarez last week in an effort to convince him to rejoin the Premier League, but was informed that Álvarez remains focused on a transfer to Barcelona.

When asked about Álvarez after Arsenal's victory over Aston Villa, Arteta deflected responsibility, stating that the decision was “for the people upstairs.” However, the Arsenal manager confirmed that the club is actively seeking to strengthen the squad before the transfer window closes. “We are trying to improve the squad and until tomorrow night we are going to do that,” he said, noting that his focus had been on the match but that he would soon return to transfer discussions.

Barcelona have already secured Gabriel Jesus in a deal reportedly worth £8.6 million. The Brazilian forward, now 29, is entering the final year of his contract and had fallen behind teammates Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres in the attacking lineup. Jesus was present at Camp Nou to witness Barcelona’s recent 5-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano. With Ferran Torres’s recent transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona are keen to reinforce their attacking options and reportedly remain interested in Álvarez.

Atlético Madrid, however, are determined to retain Álvarez, which complicates Arsenal’s pursuit. The Premier League club is understood to be monitoring alternative attacking talents as they await a potential change of heart from the player.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have completed the signing of Christos Tzolis to fill the left-wing role vacated by Leandro Trossard. The anticipated sale of Gabriel Martinelli to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal for a club-record £56 million would free up a place in the squad. Additionally, Fábio Vieira is expected to join Hamburg, where he spent last season on loan, in a deal valued at around £8.6 million. As the transfer deadline approaches, Arsenal remain focused on finalizing reinforcements ahead of the new season.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.