Manchester United have reportedly identified Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez as their primary target for the January 2026 transfer window. As the Red Devils look to rebuild following Ruben Amorim’s recent departure, the “Spider” could be the clinical finisher the club desperately lacks.
The post-Amorim era at Old Trafford has begun with a familiar headache: a lack of goals. With Darren Fletcher currently acting as interim manager and the club interviewing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick for a short-term role, the board is under pressure to deliver a world-class striker.
According to recent reports, Manchester United are preparing a formal approach for Julian Alvarez. The 25-year-old Argentine, who moved to Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024 for €95m, is seen as the ideal profile to lead the line at Old Trafford.
Why Julian Alvarez? The Stats that Matter
United’s current strike force of Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Højlund has struggled for consistency in the 2025/26 Premier League season. Zirkzee has managed only 2 league goals in 14 appearances, leading to rumors of a blocked move to AS Roma.
In contrast, Alvarez has maintained his elite level in Spain. So far in the 2025/26 season, the Argentine has delivered:
- La Liga: 7 goals and 3 assists in 19 matches.
- Champions League: 4 goals in 5 appearances.
- Work Rate: He ranks in the top 5% of forwards for progressive passes and defensive actions, a trait that United’s recruitment team, led by Christopher Vivell, is reportedly obsessed with.
The Financial Obstacle: Can United Afford Him?
While the interest is genuine, a mid-season move for a player of Alvarez’s caliber is never simple.
- Contract: Alvarez is tied to Atletico until June 2030.
- Market Value: His current Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) sits between €108M and €132M.
- Atletico’s Stance: Diego Simeone views Alvarez as untouchable, especially with Barcelona also monitoring the player’s situation.
Will the “Spider” Return to Manchester?
Manchester United’s desperation might force their hand. With the team sitting 6th in the Premier League and facing a crucial run of fixtures, a “statement signing” like Julian Alvarez could be the catalyst to save their season.
For a club that has struggled to find a reliable successor to their legendary number 9s, Alvarez offers not just goals, but Premier League experience and a winning mentality forged under Pep Guardiola.
