Arsenal receive huge Julian Alvarez transfer update after official statement
Atletico Madrid will reportedly block any approaches for Julian Alvarez during the upcoming January window amid significant transfer interest in the Argentina striker.
Alvarez, 26, wanted to leave Diego Simeone’s side over the summer, but Barcelona were unable to finalise a deal before the end of Deadline Day, and the former Manchester City forward ultimately opted to snub interest from Arsenal.
The Gunners remain eager to reach an agreement for his signature and it has been widely reported they will engage in formal talks over a transfer next year as they look to improve the attacking options at Mikel Arteta’s disposal.
Arsenal failed to sign a replacement for Gabriel Martinelli following his move to Saudi Arabia, while the reigning Premier League champions want to land an upgrade on Viktor Gyokeres, who could be sold on a permanent deal next summer after an underwhelming stint in north London.
Bournemouth star Eli Junior Kroupi is among Arsenal’s transfer targets, but a move for Alvarez remains the club’s dream transfer and they are willing to launch an approach next year.
However, TEAMtalk report that Atletico Madrid will not sell Alvarez in January.
It’s claimed that Arsenal have remained in contact with Alvarez’s representatives during the early months of the new campaign, amid their pursuit of a new attacker, but Atleti have informed the Gunners that a mid-season transfer won’t be sanctioned.
Julian Alvarez statement
News that Atletico have no interest in sanctioning a sale in January comes shortly after Alvarez issued a public apology to the club’s supporters for expressing his desire to leave during the World Cup.
“I wanted to apologize to our fans for my words during the World Cup. They were a mistake. Both the way I said them and the timing,” he told Movistar (via Fabrizio Romano).
“Especially because I understand why the fans were angry. I would have been angry too if I were a fan.
“Even more so considering how much they’ve supported me. They’ve been very generous, and I really appreciate that. I also want to thank the team because they’ve supported me throughout this time.
“I’m gradually feeling better. I’m grateful to all my teammates because they’ve supported me. I’m working to improve. I’ve been feeling better in the last few matches, both physically and on the ball. I want to help the team and give my best.
“When you’re feeling good in life, it shows on the pitch. Even though we’re professionals, everything has an influence. I feel good and ready to compete for everything.
“Hopefully, through hard work and humility, I can turn this situation around.”
