Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates after the Community Shield win vs Manchester City (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Arsenal could be set for a breakthrough as Julian Alvarez is increasingly open to a move to north London, following talks with manager Mikel Arteta.
The Argentina international has long been linked with Arsenal, and he is widely regarded as an ideal fit for the Premier League champions’ style.
Although Barcelona also remains interested, recent developments suggest Alvarez has been persuaded to consider Arsenal following discussions with Arteta.
According to Spanish outlet AS, cited by the Evening Standard, Alvarez is now widely reported to be desperate to depart Atletico Madrid.
Alvarez Transfer Saga Nearing Conclusion
As the report notes, Arsenal remain in pursuit of a marquee forward after their earlier attempts to secure Vinicius Junior proved unsuccessful.
Alvarez would represent a significant upgrade on Viktor Gyokeres, who, despite contributing 21 goals across all competitions last season, helped guide the club to the league title and Champions League final.
The report notes Alvarez’s previous interest in a Barcelona move, though Atletico Madrid remain firm in their stance against selling their star to a domestic rival.
This positions Arsenal favorably, with Alvarez seemingly prioritizing a move away at all costs following his unsettled status.
Alvarez Deal: What It Means for Gyokeres’ Future
Should Alvarez join, Gyokeres would face an uncertain future at the Emirates Stadium.
The Sweden international was an unused substitute in Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Coventry City on Friday, suggesting Arteta is prepared to make Kai Havertz his first-choice option should a new arrival not materialize.
Havertz has started over Gyokeres in each of the season’s opening two matches, as well as in last season’s Champions League final.
However, Havertz may not provide the 25-goal-a-season output Arsenal require at centre-forward, with Alvarez appearing capable of elevating the team to new heights.
Havertz is also capable of operating as an attacking midfielder, meaning he could have a role even if Alvarez arrives, whereas Gyokeres may yet be placed on the market should the deal come to fruition.
