Transfer Focus on Alvarez and Barcola
Arsenal are actively working to secure a deal for Atletico Madrid‘s Julian Alvarez before the pre-season period commences. The Argentina forward, who recently scored an extra-time winner for his national team in their 3-1 victory over Switzerland, has been a primary attacking target for Mikel Arteta. While Alvarez has expressed openness to a move to Arsenal, his initial preference was to remain in Spain, potentially with either Barcelona or Real Madrid. However, Atletico Madrid has reportedly been firm in their stance against selling the player to their rivals, a position highlighted by social media posts.
The pursuit of Alvarez by Arsenal has gained momentum, partly due to Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola reportedly being unavailable for transfer. Arsenal had previously considered Barcola as an alternative target, with some encouragement that a deal might be possible as the Qatar-owned club assessed its attacking options. However, PSG is said to be keen on retaining the young star. Liverpool have also made contact with Paris Saint-Germain regarding a potential summer move for the France forward Bradley Barcola.
Reports indicate that Arsenal has explored the possibility of including Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres as part of a deal to bring Julian Alvarez to the club. The financial aspects of a potential transfer for Alvarez have also been a point of discussion, with Arsenal reportedly not wanting to exceed £90m, while Atletico Madrid is seeking more than £100m. The negotiations for Alvarez involve Arsenal‘s sporting director, Andrea Berta, engaging with his former club.
Other Notable Transfer Developments
In other transfer news, Tottenham captain Cristian Romero is reportedly set to depart the club this summer, with Barcelona showing interest in the Argentina defender. Barcelona is also expected to resume their pursuit of Alvarez after the World Cup and could potentially include one of their own players in a deal. The Catalan club also intends to offer Spain forward Ferran Torres a new contract amidst interest from Paris Saint-Germain, though they plan to wait until September due to financial regulations.
Liverpool has rejected a new approach for Curtis Jones. Inter Milan‘s improved bid of approximately £27m did not meet Liverpool‘s asking price of £30m for the England midfielder. Meanwhile, Everton has intensified their long-standing interest in Genoa‘s Brooke Norton-Cuffy, with recent discussions taking place regarding a potential move for the England Under-21 defender.
Arsenal is also looking to sell Brazil forward Gabriel Jesus, with AC Milan among the clubs considered leading contenders to sign him. Sunderland is reportedly close to finalising the signing of Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier following his departure from Lille. Additionally, the agents of Crysencio Summerville have met with Roma concerning the Netherlands forward joining them from West Ham. USA goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina is currently on trial with Strasbourg, with a potential move from Chelsea in view.
The World Cup has also influenced transfer activities, slowing down what was already a protracted transfer for Morgan Rogers, whom Arsenal remains hopeful of securing. The situation surrounding many high-profile deals may continue to evolve as the aftermath of the World Cup settles.
Read Also
Source: bbc.co.uk
