Arsenal in three-way battle for Man City star as deal explodes into life

Tom Weber

• Updated: 3 Aug 2024 16:01 BST
• 4 min read

Arsenal are involved in the battle to sign Manchester City star Julian Alvarez, according to a report.

The speculation surrounding the Argentine striker has exploded into life in recent days, with both the player himself and Pep Guardiola addressing his future. Alvarez hinted at his frustration, claiming that it would be nice if he were to be trusted more in big games.

Earlier this summer, the player's camp had begun agitating for a transfer away and FootballTransfers recently revealed that his antics have left Man City baffled and Guardiola furious.

READ MORE: Arsenal Transfer News Today - Alvarez BOMB, Romano announces TWIST, Merino says NO

According to Fabrizio Romano, the situation is now getting 'tense' with Alvarez's agents set for crunch talks with Man City next week to discuss his future and potentially set a price tag for the 24-year-old, with the player so far showing no indication of wanting to stay.

PSG have been in contact with the player's camp since the news initially broke in June, but they have now been joined by more suitors.

Arsenal interested?

According to reports in France, PSG have initiated talks with Man City regarding a transfer, while also presenting a contract proposal to Alvarez. Argentine journalist Gaston Edul, meanwhile, is reporting that Atletico Madrid will also get involved.

Atletico Madrid are not expected to be able to go as high as PSG in terms of the transfer fee, with €60 million thought to be the ballpark of the offer Diego Simeone's side are preparing. However, it is claimed that Alvarez is willing to give priority to the LaLiga outfit due to his desire to move to Spain.

READ MORE: Arsenal in 'pole position' to sign free agent Rabiot as agent speaks out

This tallies with FootballTransfers' understanding of the situation. We hear that Alvarez is looking to get out of England and head to the warmer climes of Spain with his family.

Edul has played down links with Chelsea, which makes sense given the above, though The Mirror claims that Arsenal are also among the clubs monitoring Alvarez's situation.

However, the Gunners are unlikely to move for a striker unless they can manage to offload Eddie Nketiah, which is proving difficult. Talks with Olympique Marseille have been stalling and could be off altogether in light of the news that the Ligue 1 giants are expected to sign Youssoufa Moukoko.