Arsenal's pursuit of a top striker might be heating up as Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez is reportedly becoming more open to a move to the Emirates Stadium, potentially influenced by discussions with manager Mikel Arteta.
The Argentina international has been a long-term target for Arsenal, and Spanish outlet AS, as cited by the Evening Standard, suggests Alvarez is keen to leave Atletico Madrid. Despite strong links to Barcelona, it appears Arteta's intervention might be shifting Alvarez's focus toward the Gunners.
This development comes as Arsenal seeks a significant attacking acquisition following their inability to secure Vinicius Junior earlier in the transfer window. Alvarez is seen as a potential upgrade, especially considering Viktor Gyokeres' performance last season, which, despite netting 21 goals and contributing to Arsenal's title and Champions League final appearances, wasn't universally convincing.
Atletico Madrid's reluctance to sell Alvarez to La Liga rivals like Barcelona could play into Arsenal's hands. With Alvarez reportedly eager for any move away from his current club due to feeling unsettled, Arsenal seems to be in a strong position.
Should Alvarez join, it could signal an uncertain future for Viktor Gyokeres at Arsenal. Gyokeres was an unused substitute in a recent match, hinting that Arteta may be prioritizing Kai Havertz as his first-choice striker if no new signing arrives. While Havertz has featured prominently, he might not be the prolific 25-goal-a-season center-forward Arsenal needs, a role Alvarez appears capable of filling and potentially elevating the team.
Havertz's versatility, playing as an attacking midfielder as well, could still see him integrated into the squad even with an Alvarez signing. However, Gyokeres might be the player to be moved on if this transfer materializes.
