The brass at La Liga champions Barcelona will likely be less than amused by the latest word stemming from England on Thursday, regarding the transfer plans of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal.
This comes amid confirmation that the Gunners maintain a keen interest in the signing of Atlético Madrid star Julián Alvarez.
Frontman Alvarez has of course been tipped for a departure from Spain’s capital throughout the summer to date. Amid an ongoing search for a replacement for Robert Lewandowski, the aforementioned Barcelona have made crystal clear that the Argentine stands as their priority target.
The Blaugrana have in turn gone as far as to table a big-money offer, which remains on the table as far as Joan Laporta and co. are concerned.
As alluded to above, though, the Catalans are far from the only high-profile club keen on a deal for Alvarez with a view to next season.
As per a report from English transfer journalist Ben Jacobs:
‘Arsenal continue to explore Julian Alvarez. Player has made no secret of his desire to join Barcelona, but Andrea Berta is also in contact with former club Atletico Madrid. Although Atletico Madrid don’t wish to sell, they are currently more inclined to do business with a non-La Liga rival.’
It now remains to be seen if the will of Alvarez himself proves decisive.
Conor Laird – GSFN
