Arsenal in direct contact with Julian Alvarez camp

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has engaged in direct talks with Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez regarding a potential return to the Premier League this summer, according to Caught Offside. The development marks a significant step in the club's pursuit of attacking reinforcements.

Background: Alvarez's journey and Arsenal's need

Julian Alvarez, 25, joined Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024 for a fee reported at the time to be around £82 million. He scored 16 goals in 36 La Liga appearances last season, showcasing the finishing ability that earned him the 'world-class' tag in the source report. Arsenal have been monitoring the Argentine international since his River Plate days, but the arrival of Berta — a former Atletico executive — has provided a direct conduit to the player's representatives.

Tactically, Arsenal have lacked a natural No.9 who offers both hold-up play and movement in behind. Kai Havertz has been deployed as a false nine, while Gabriel Jesus has struggled with injuries and form. Alvarez's profile — a hard-working striker who drops deep to link play — aligns with Mikel Arteta's demands for pressing intensity and positional fluidity.

What this means for Arsenal's summer plans

Arsenal are expected to be active in the summer transfer window after a season that saw them fall short in the Premier League title race. The Gunners currently sit second, five points behind leaders Liverpool with nine games remaining. Adding a proven goalscorer has been identified as a priority, and Alvarez's Premier League experience — 36 goals in 103 appearances for City — makes him a low-risk target.

  • Alvarez would compete with Havertz and Jesus for the central striker role, offering a more traditional No.9 option.
  • His ability to play across the front three provides tactical flexibility for Arteta's rotation-heavy system.
  • Financially, Arsenal may need to recoup funds through sales — Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson have been linked with exits to balance the books.

From a Fantasy Premier League perspective, Alvarez's ownership is currently 2.1% at Atletico, but a return to English football would make him a popular budget-friendly forward option, likely priced around £7.0m-£8.0m depending on Arsenal's negotiating position. His upcoming fixtures, if he joins, would include favourable home matches against promoted sides.

What's next: A summer-long pursuit?

Atletico Madrid are under no pressure to sell, with Alvarez under contract until 2030. However, the player's desire to return to England — he has publicly stated his affection for the Premier League — could force the issue. Arsenal will need to meet Atletico's valuation, likely starting at £70 million, but direct talks indicate serious intent. Expect this saga to dominate the summer window headlines.

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