Outpacing MU and Chelsea, Arsenal goes all-in for Alvarez

A significant step is underway at Arsenal, set to alter the dynamics of the transfer competition.

Arsenal is emerging as a strong contender in the pursuit of Julian Alvarez, amid the Argentine striker’s growing dissatisfaction with life at Atletico Madrid. The “middlemen” have approached a very limited group of clubs according to Alvarez’s wishes, making this deal heat up early even though the market has not officially opened.

Sources from TEAMtalk reveal that Manchester United and Chelsea have made firm offers for Alvarez following his notable contributions in La Liga this season. However, Arsenal is considered to be one step ahead thanks to close monitoring. The Gunners have sent scouts to observe the 26-year-old striker over the past two weeks.

Arsenal’s management has held internal discussions about the scenario of bringing Alvarez to North London, while also planning flexible negotiation strategies with Atletico. Notably, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli have been mentioned as potential “bargaining chips” in a swap deal, especially since both have been linked with possible exits from the Emirates recently.

Arsenal’s personnel plan also allows for adjustments in 2026, as the club is ready to consider suitable offers for some key forwards. The “player-plus-cash” approach helps the Gunners ease financial pressure and strengthens their negotiating position with Atletico — a club known for tough stances in transfers.

Experts believe Alvarez fits Mikel Arteta’s pressing and movement demands, providing a more consistent goal-scoring option. Gary Lineker commented that having a world-class striker, who has won the World Cup, could raise Arsenal’s ceiling in big matches — something they have lacked at crucial moments.

Nevertheless, Arsenal’s immediate challenge remains the current forwards’ output. With goal scoring not consistent enough, pursuing a complete “number 9” like Alvarez makes sense. The competition with MU, Chelsea, and PSG promises to be intense, forcing the Gunners to make a decisive move if they don’t want to miss out.