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Arsenal urged to sign Julian Alvarez instead of Vinicius Jr

By on August 5, 2026

Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld has urged Arsenal to sign Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez instead of Vinicius Junior.

After joining Manchester City from River Plate, the 26-year-old enjoyed great success. However, he mainly featured as Erling Haaland’s deputy; as a result, he decided to join Los Rojiblancos a couple of years ago to play regularly.

The Argentinian has showcased his goal-scoring prowess at the Estadio Metropolitano, scoring 29 goals and registering eight assists across all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign.

Last season, Alvarez netted 20 goals and notched up nine assists in 49 appearances in all tournaments. However, he hasn’t been able to win any major silverware in the Spanish capital.

On the other hand, Alvarez has enjoyed great success on the international stage with Argentina, winning a World Cup and two Copa America.

Now, during a recent interview (via Metro), Alderweireld says that Alvarez possesses the qualities needed to take Arsenal to the next level. However, the Belgian does not think Vinicius would be able to do the same if he joined the Gunners this summer.

Although Arsenal have Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres as striker options, Alderweireld believes the Emirates club need more quality upfront, and Alvarez is an ‘unbelievable’ striker with a big work rate.

Alvarez to Arsenal

Alderweireld said:

“Who is the player to take Arsenal to the next level? For me, it would be Alvarez over Vinicius Junior. I am a big fan of Alvarez. Arsenal have Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz but sometimes I feel they need more quality up front, and Alvarez is an unbelievable striker with a big work rate too.”

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Alvarez, but the player is prioritising joining Barcelona if he were to leave the Spanish capital this summer.

Although Alvarez can provide cover on the flanks, he is more comfortable centrally. He possesses a poacher’s instinct inside the box, can create opportunities for fellow attackers and is also efficient at taking set-pieces.

The South American is one of the best forwards in the world and is currently at the prime stage of his career. Therefore, he would be a great coup for Arsenal should they purchase him.

However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services.