Arsenal handed major Julian Alvarez transfer boost as Atletico Madrid rule out Barcelona move

Arsenal’s hopes of completing a blockbuster move for Julian Alvarez have received a significant boost after Atletico Madrid made it clear that they will not negotiate with Barcelona for the Argentina international.

The 26-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from the Spanish capital during the closing stages of the summer transfer window, with Barcelona understood to have been his preferred destination.

However, Atletico’s refusal to do business with their La Liga rivals has potentially opened the door for Premier League champions Arsenal, who have already held talks over what would become one of the biggest deals of the summer.

Julian Alvarez misses Atletico Madrid training

The uncertainty surrounding Alvarez’s future has intensified after the striker missed two consecutive days of Atletico training, citing illness.

It follows reports that Alvarez and his representatives were privately informed earlier this week that Atletico would not consider selling him to Barcelona.

That position has since been made public, with the Madrid club releasing two statements within 24 hours to underline their determination not to negotiate with the Catalan side.

Responding to Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s comments regarding his club’s interest in Alvarez, Atletico initially stated: “There is 0% chance of selling him to Barca.”

The club’s board then reinforced that message on Thursday, saying: “The members of Atletico de Madrid’s board of directors have unanimously expressed their absolute support for the club’s decision to not negotiate the transfer of Julian Alvarez to FC Barcelona.”

While that appears to have closed one potential route away from Atletico, the situation is considerably different when it comes to Arsenal.

Arsenal and Atletico Madrid hold Julian Alvarez talks

Atletico are understood to be willing to negotiate with Arsenal over Alvarez, and discussions between the two clubs have already taken place.

Atletico director Mateu Alemany was in London last week and is understood to have met Arsenal representatives, with the Spanish club making their valuation of the forward clear.

A fee of approximately €150million, around £128million, is reportedly being sought.

Such a deal would represent another major statement from Arsenal as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen a squad aiming to defend its Premier League title and compete for the biggest trophies in Europe.

The major obstacle throughout Arsenal’s pursuit has not necessarily been reaching an agreement with Atletico, but convincing Alvarez that a move to the Emirates Stadium is the right next step in his career.

His preference for Barcelona had effectively placed Arsenal’s interest on hold. Atletico’s firm stance, however, means the circumstances surrounding the forward have now changed considerably.

Could Julian Alvarez join Arsenal?

There is still work to be done before an Alvarez transfer to Arsenal can progress.

Despite Atletico being prepared to discuss a deal with the Gunners, the Argentina forward would first need to give his approval to the move.

That could prove decisive over the final days of the transfer window.

Club-to-club discussions between Arsenal and Atletico are understood to have been positive, meaning negotiations could advance quickly should Alvarez indicate that he is prepared to move to North London.

Arsenal therefore appear to be in a strong position if the striker decides he wants to leave Madrid before the deadline, particularly with Barcelona seemingly removed from the equation.

It leaves Alvarez facing an important decision over his immediate future while Arsenal wait to discover whether one of their biggest transfer targets will finally become attainable.

Why do Arsenal want Julian Alvarez?

Alvarez would add another proven attacking option to Arteta’s squad as Arsenal look to build on their Premier League title success.

The Argentine is capable of operating as a central striker as well as in deeper and wider attacking positions, offering the Gunners further flexibility across their forward line.

He also brings considerable experience of competing at the highest level despite still being only 26, having played in both the Premier League and La Liga as well as on the international stage with Argentina.

Arsenal have been prepared to remain patient despite Alvarez’s preference for Barcelona, rather than immediately turning their attention elsewhere.

Atletico’s refusal to sanction a Barcelona move could now reward that approach, although Alvarez himself ultimately holds the key to whether negotiations accelerate.

With the transfer deadline approaching, his situation is set to be one of the major stories to follow.

Watch Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium with official hospitality

Whether Arsenal add Alvarez to Arteta’s squad or not, another exciting season is underway at the Emirates Stadium as the Premier League champions look to defend their crown.

Eventmasters offers official Arsenal hospitality packages for matches at the Emirates Stadium throughout the 2026/27 campaign, combining premium match seats with a selection of hospitality experiences.

Explore the latest Arsenal hospitality options with Eventmasters and enjoy Premier League football in style in North London.

Julian Alvarez to Arsenal FAQs

Is Julian Alvarez joining Arsenal?

No deal has been completed. Arsenal are interested in signing Julian Alvarez and have held discussions with Atletico Madrid, but the striker would need to give the green light to a move before negotiations could advance towards an agreement.

How much do Atletico Madrid want for Julian Alvarez?

Atletico Madrid are understood to value Alvarez at approximately €150million, equivalent to around £128million.

Why are Atletico Madrid refusing to sell Julian Alvarez to Barcelona?

Atletico have publicly stated that they will not negotiate the sale of Alvarez to Barcelona. The club’s board has unanimously backed that position despite Barcelona retaining an interest in the Argentina international.

Has Julian Alvarez missed Atletico Madrid training?

Alvarez has missed two consecutive training sessions, with illness cited as the reason for his absence. It comes amid continued uncertainty over his future at the club.

Could Arsenal complete the Julian Alvarez transfer quickly?

Potentially. Discussions between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid are understood to have been positive, and a deal could progress quickly if Alvarez decides that he is willing to join Arsenal.

Can I book Arsenal hospitality with Eventmasters?

Yes. Eventmasters offers official Arsenal hospitality packages at the Emirates Stadium, allowing supporters and corporate guests to watch Premier League football with premium seating and hospitality.