Arsenal prepare record bid for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez
Arsenal are poised to make a British-record bid for Julian Alvarez after Atletico Madrid blocked the forward’s potential transfer to Barcelona.
Mikel Arteta has held a long-standing interest in the World Cup winner and weighed up an offer last summer before signing Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners could now reignite their pursuit as the highly-rated attacker prepares to leave the Spanish capital.
His expected departure comes just two years after completing a high-profile £81m transfer from Manchester City.
Barcelona approach rejected
Catalan giants Barcelona remain keen admirers and recently tabled an opening offer of €100m (£86.4m) for the player.
Spanish outlet RAC1 reports that Atletico swiftly rejected the bid and are refusing to conduct business with their La Liga rivals.
The Madrid club have reportedly grown frustrated with intense media scrutiny surrounding their star’s future and will heavily block any switch to the Camp Nou.
This hardline domestic stance has firmly positioned the north Londoners as the clear favourites to secure his signature.
Record-breaking fee demanded
Initial contact has already been made between Arsenal executives and the Argentine’s representatives.
Atletico are currently awaiting the start of official negotiations but have set a staggering €150m (£129.6m) asking price.
Meeting this immense valuation would shatter the British transfer record, surpassing the £120m Liverpool paid for Alexander Isak.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta possesses a unique advantage in these upcoming talks, having originally negotiated the striker’s move to Madrid before relocating to the Emirates Stadium.
Atletico source dismisses speculation
Despite mounting transfer speculation, figures within the Metropolitano Stadium are publicly maintaining a defiant front regarding their asset.
“Two weeks ago it was PSG, last week Barcelona, now Arsenal. We count on Julian for next season.”
Behind the scenes, however, Diego Simeone’s side are already exploring potential replacements to lead their frontline.
Spanish newspaper AS claims an enquiry has been submitted for Victor Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray for £63m following a successful loan spell.