Arsenal are considering a player-plus-cash deal for Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, which would see Viktor Gyökeres move the other way.
Cadena SER reports Atlético see Arsenal as the only realistic destination if the Argentine leaves this summer.
Álvarez has already made his wishes clear. Speaking after Argentina’s World Cup win over Austria, he said leaving was “the best thing for everyone” and that he wanted to fulfil his dream elsewhere.
Barcelona remain his preferred destination, but Atlético have ruled out strengthening a direct La Liga rival. Chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín insisted last week that Atlético have no intention of selling, saying they turned down a €100m bid and would reject offers of €150m or €200m too.
That stance leaves England as the most likely route out. Cadena SER’s Miguel Martín Talavera says Arsenal’s package appeals to Atlético because it offers an immediate replacement in Gyökeres alongside a significant fee.
Gyökeres joined Arsenal from Sporting CP for £64m only last year and scored 21 goals in his debut Premier League season. Arsenal’s willingness to include him so soon shows how highly Arteta rates Álvarez as an alternative up front.
Atlético are working through other business as they plan for the move. Thiago Almada is expected to leave for Flamengo, while the futures of José María Giménez and several academy players remain unresolved.
For now, Atlético are focused on convincing Álvarez to stay under Diego Simeone. But if he insists on leaving, Arsenal are seen as the only club Atlético will sanction a move to, given their refusal to help Barcelona.
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