Sources: Arsenal in “dialogue” over signing “incredible” £60m talent as Julian Alvarez alternative

Arsenal have entered into a dialogue with the entourage of Matias Fernandez-Pardo as they consider a late transfer move for the Lille star, I’m told.

Sources with a close understanding of the player’s situation have informed me that there is indeed interest from Newcastle United, as has been widely reported, but that Arsenal are also emerging as a serious option.

Fernandez-Pardo is looking to leave Lille this summer and this has previously had top clubs on alert, though his £60m asking price is seen as a bit high, and has slowed down progress so far.

However, Arsenal are eager to strengthen in attack towards the end of this window and may now be increasingly willing to negotiate a move for Fernandez-Pardo as an alternative to Julian Alvarez.

Arsenal keeping their options open

Although nothing has been decided on Alvarez yet at the time of writing, there is yet to be any real indication that the Atletico Madrid striker has opened the door to joining the Gunners.

That could change at any moment, but it would require a major U-turn from Alvarez, who has made Barcelona his full priority for the entire window so far.

Arsenal keeping their options open is probably sensible, and Fernandez-Pardo is a player they’ve long appreciated.

“There’s a dialogue established now as near the transfer deadline,” one source said. “Arsenal could formalise their interest once the Alvarez situation is clear. Mikel Arteta is a big fan of Fernandez-Pardo’s profile as he can play out wide or up front. The asking price has been an issue but at the same time there’s recognition that this could be a smart investment in a player whose value is likely to soar in years to come.”