Arsenal have encountered a significant hurdle in their efforts to sign Julian Alvarez, the former Manchester City forward currently shining at Atletico Madrid. Reports suggest Alvarez has earmarked Barcelona as his ideal next destination, putting the Gunners and Liverpool on the back foot.
Having transferred from Manchester City to Atletico Madrid in August 2024 for around £82 million, the Argentine marksman proved his mettle at City by playing an instrumental role in their historic Treble-winning season in 2022/23, which culminated in their maiden Champions League triumph.
Since arriving in La Liga, Alvarez has established himself as a potent force, netting 42 goals and providing 14 assists in all competitions from the start of the 2024/25 season. However, the 26-year-old has hit a rough patch this campaign, going 14 league matches without scoring and registering just one assist during this spell. Nonetheless, he delivered an impressive performance against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg, contributing a goal and an assist in Atletico’s 4-0 victory.
Despite his recent form, Alvarez remains a coveted asset among Europe’s top clubs, with whispers of a Premier League return still circulating. Arsenal, keen on bolstering their attacking options, have been closely linked to the striker, but according to a report from Football Insider, Alvarez has shown a preference to stay in Spain, prioritising a move to Barcelona over Arsenal or Liverpool.
Alvarez’s ongoing contract with Atletico runs until 2030, meaning any potential transfer would command a hefty fee, potentially surpassing the £100 million mark. Transfer expert Pete O’Rourke noted that while Alvarez might favour Barcelona, the Catalan giants’ financial constraints could pose a challenge: “If Alvarez was to leave Atletico, I think he probably would have a preference for a move to Barcelona, but the big concern over that one is whether Barcelona could afford a deal for the Argentine.”
Liverpool’s interest in Alvarez emerges amid a dip in form for their star forwards, Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo. Yet, given their recent acquisitions, including standout performer Hugo Ekitike, it’s uncertain whether a move for Alvarez is feasible, especially if he would be deployed out wide a role he might find less appealing.
Alvarez’s initial move from Manchester City was driven by a desire to escape Erling Haaland’s shadow and take centre stage an opportunity granted under Diego Simeone’s tutelage at Atletico. While Arsenal could offer him a similar platform, and Barcelona a chance to don the No.9 shirt as Robert Lewandowski nears the twilight of his career, such a role at Barcelona might not guarantee him as the primary focal point while Lamine Yamal remains integral to their plans.
In light of these considerations, Alvarez’s inclination to favour Barcelona over Premier League suitors like Arsenal or Liverpool is readily understandable.