Arsenal have reportedly accelerated internal efforts to sign Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez in a deal that could shatter the club’s transfer records and exceed €100 million.
The Search for a “Game-Changer”
Despite heavy investment in the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and more recently Viktor Gyökeres (who cost the club approximately £175 million combined), the Arsenal board believes they still lack a clinical “decider” for the biggest stages.
According to TEAMtalk and insider Graeme Bailey, the Gunners have identified the Argentine World Cup winner as the missing piece to secure their dominance in the Premier League.
The Andrea Berta Factor
Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, is the secret weapon in these negotiations. Berta, who moved to London after 12 successful years at Atlético Madrid, was the man responsible for bringing “The Spider” to Spain from Manchester City.
His deep ties with agent Fernando Hidalgo and the player’s inner circle have given Arsenal a significant “strategic advantage” behind the scenes. While a deal in the remaining days of January is ruled out, the groundwork is being laid for a massive summer offensive.
Market Dynamics: Barça’s Loss, Arsenal’s Gain?
Reports suggest that Álvarez is currently unsettled at the Metropolitano and would prefer a move to Barcelona as the successor to Robert Lewandowski. However, the Catalan club’s ongoing financial struggles make a €100m+ operation almost impossible, leaving the door wide open for Arsenal and Chelsea to compete for his signature.
Atlético, having paid €95 million for the striker in 2024, are determined to make a profit, setting a firm asking price that only the Premier League’s elite can meet.
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
