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Arsenal in talks to sign Julian Alvarez

By on July 23, 2026

Arsenal are plotting an audacious swoop to sign Atlético Madrid centre-forward Julian Álvarez this summer, according to CaughtOffside.

Álvarez has developed from a highly rated centre-forward prospect into one of the continent’s most ruthless finishers.

His remarkable consistency in front of goal dates back to his rise through River Plate’s academy, where he amassed 85 goal contributions in 122 appearances.

Although he often operated behind Erling Haaland in the pecking order at Manchester City, Álvarez remained a dependable option whenever selected and still accumulated 55 combined goals and assists during his spell at the Etihad Stadium.

The striker has carried that outstanding form into his time with Atlético Madrid following his high-profile move in the summer of 2024. The 26-year-old has already produced 66 goal contributions for the Spanish side, including 29 in the most recent campaign.

Given his consistent goalscoring record, it’s no surprise he has become one of the most coveted forwards in the ongoing summer transfer window.

Now, according to CaughtOffside, Arsenal’s sporting director has held direct talks with Alvarez over his potential transfer to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

Gabriel Jesus’ upgrade?

In a boost to the Gunners, the report adds that Atlético have informed the Argentine’s camp that they are willing to sanction his move to join the Premier League champions this summer.

However, Arsenal face a strong hurdle in meeting the club’s valuation, with the report adding that the Spanish club’s £170m valuation seems unrealistic, despite the 26-year-old being open to a return to England; his preference remains Barcelona.

Arsenal currently have Viktor Gyökeres and Gabriel Jesus as their centre-forward options, while the versatile Kai Havertz is also capable of operating as the focal point of the attack.

Despite a challenging start to life in North London, Gyökeres established himself as one of Mikel Arteta’s most influential players, ending the campaign as Arsenal’s top scorer with 14 Premier League goals and 21 in all competitions.

Still, Jesus, whose contract runs out at the end of next season, faces an uncertain future at the club, prompting the need for a new, reliable centre-forward.

While Atlético are reportedly open to selling him, it’ll be interesting to see whether Arsenal will meet their £170m valuation, negotiate a lower fee, or move on to other alternatives.