Argentine forward Julian Alvarez has reportedly informed Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta that he is not interested in joining the Premier League club, instead aiming to complete a move to Barcelona. Alvarez, 26, currently plays for Atletico Madrid and appears determined to switch to the Spanish giants despite Atletico’s reluctance to negotiate a transfer with Barcelona.
Alvarez, who formerly played for Manchester City and was part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad, carries a market valuation near £100 million. His desire to join Barcelona has complicated potential transfer talks, even as Atletico Madrid resists selling directly to the Catalan club. This situation has seemingly presented Arsenal with an opening to pursue Alvarez, though the forward has made it clear he does not want to move to the English side.
Transfer specialist David Ornstein, appearing on TNT Sports, reported that Alvarez has communicated directly with Arteta to express his preference to avoid a move to Arsenal. Speculation continues around the possibility that Arsenal might still complete a deal before the transfer window closes on Tuesday, provided they include a clause allowing Alvarez to join Barcelona in the future.
Alvarez’s current stint at Atletico has faced challenges, exemplified by boos from home fans during a recent 0-0 draw against Villarreal, signaling potential discontent and strengthening his motivation to leave.
Separately, Arsenal has secured a contract extension for young defender Marli Salmon. Salmon, who made his first-team debut last season in a UEFA Champions League match against Club Brugge, signed a professional contract on his 17th birthday, marking a milestone for the promising player within the club’s development system.