Arsenal consider Viktor Gyokeres swap deal for Atletico’s Julian Alvarez
Arsenal are exploring a potential swap deal involving striker Viktor Gyokeres to sign wantaway Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez this summer.
The Argentina international has reportedly made it clear he wishes to leave the Spanish capital.
While Real Madrid and Barcelona hold a strong interest, Atletico are deeply reluctant to sell to a domestic rival.
That stance has opened the door for Premier League suitors, with the Gunners currently leading the pursuit.
However, securing the World Cup winner’s signature could require a high-profile sacrifice.
Mixed fortunes in north London
According to talkSPORT, the north London club are weighing up offering Gyokeres as a makeweight in the proposed transfer.
The Sweden international arrived at Emirates Stadium just a year ago following a protracted saga with Sporting Lisbon.
He contributed 14 league goals to help Mikel Arteta’s side secure the Premier League title during his debut campaign.
Despite that respectable return, the 26-year-old has faced criticism regarding his overall impact outside the penalty area.
Arteta’s demands and dressing room trust
During his first season, the Spanish manager issued a stark warning regarding the intense expectations placed on the club’s number nine.
Arteta stressed that any leading striker must maintain their overall contribution even during barren spells in front of goal.
“The nine that I want is a nine that when he doesn’t score for six or eight games, he can handle that. If not, you have to go somewhere else.”
Further doubts were raised mid-season by former Arsenal playmaker Paul Merson, who suggested the forward lacked the confidence of his colleagues.
Speaking on a podcast, the pundit claimed teammates actively avoided passing to the Scandinavian attacker.
“I watch Gyokeres, Arsenal don’t trust him, the players. They never pass to him, you watch him, next time he comes short they go ‘no’.”
Merson noted a stark contrast in the team’s willingness to distribute the ball when Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus enters the pitch.