Arsenal push to land Julian Alvarez before pre-season starts

Arsenal are accelerating their pursuit of a proven attacking leader, with reports suggesting the club hopes to finalise a marquee signing before the start of pre-season training. Mikel Arteta already possesses a strong forward line, but adding a prolific goalscorer with Premier League experience would significantly bolster the Gunners’ title challenge and Champions League ambitions.

The timing of any deal is considered crucial. Securing a high-profile arrival early in the window would allow the player to integrate into Arteta’s system, build chemistry with teammates and avoid a drawn-out saga dominating the final weeks of the transfer period. Arsenal see an opportunity in what appears to be a complicated race for the signature of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.

Alvarez is reportedly open to returning to the Premier League, though his initial preference was to stay in Spain with either Barcelona or Real Madrid. The Argentina international only moved to Atletico from Manchester City in 2024 for a package worth around £80m, but he has already indicated a desire to move on. He has spoken with the club and publicly stated that a transfer would be the best outcome as he seeks to fulfil his ambitions elsewhere.

Arsenal are understood to be unwilling to exceed £90m for the 26-year-old, while Atletico are believed to want more than £100m given the £450m release clause in his contract, which runs until 2030. The Spanish side are publicly maintaining that Alvarez is not for sale, with club president Enrique Cerezo determined to keep the striker. This stance leaves Arsenal facing a significant decision: either push hard for the player and risk a bidding war, or walk away if the fee spirals too high.

Alvarez would be an outstanding addition for the Gunners. He already understands English football, can operate as a central striker or a supporting forward, and offers the pressing intensity Arteta demands. Completing this kind of ambitious move before pre-season could give Arsenal a crucial edge over their rivals. However, the club must avoid being forced into an excessive fee. Paying slightly above £90m might be justified for a player of this calibre, but moving far beyond £100m would impact the rest of their transfer plans.

Ultimately, this is the type of signing that could define Arsenal’s summer. Alvarez would not simply add depth; he could become the final attacking piece in a squad built to win the biggest trophies. The coming weeks will reveal whether Arsenal can convince Atletico to do business before the pre-season curtain rises.