Barcelona are facing growing competition in their pursuit of one of Europe’s most coveted forwards.
According to a recent report from ESPN, relayed by SPORT, Arsenal are prepared to rival the Blaugrana for the signing of Julian Alvarez from Atléetico Madrid.
Advertisement
Barcelona’s interest in Alvarez is well established. Within the club, the Argentine is viewed as the ideal long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski, whose role as the main reference in attack will inevitably need replacing.
Alvarez’s versatility, work rate, and goal-scoring ability make him a profile that fits both Barcelona’s sporting needs and stylistic identity.
Arsenal enter the scene
However, Barça are fully aware that signing him will be extremely difficult.
This is because his market value is estimated at around €100 million, and the situation becomes even more complex, knowing that several financially powerful clubs are willing to go all in to secure his services.
Advertisement
That reality places Barcelona at a disadvantage, at least in the short term.
As such, Arsenal have now emerged as one of the most serious challengers. The Premier League side is considering a major summer investment and see Alvarez as a player who could elevate their attack.
Arsenal have entered the race to sign Julian Alvarez. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Their confidence is closely linked to the presence of Andrea Berta, who joined Arsenal after spending 12 years at Atletico Madrid.
Berta’s deep knowledge of the Spanish club gives Arsenal a strategic edge. It is said that he was directly involved in negotiating Alvarez’s transfer from Manchester City in 2024.
Advertisement
In addition, he maintains a strong working relationship with the player’s agent, Fernando Hidalgo, and his team.
Not an easy operation
Alvarez remains under a long-term contract at Atletico Madrid until 2030, and his release clause stands at a staggering €500 million.
While no club is expected to activate that clause, Atletico would only consider opening talks at figures close to €100 million, an amount that would allow them to recover their original investment.
From Barcelona’s perspective, patience is key. The club plans to wait until they return to the 1:1 financial rule, something expected to happen in the summer.
Once that objective is achieved, Barça intend to make a significant push for a new centre-forward, and Alvarez sits at the very top of their shortlist.
