Diego Simeone speaks with Julian Alvarez about Arsenal interest

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·14 August 2026

Diego Simeone speaks with Julian Alvarez about Arsenal interest

Julian Alvarez has resumed training at Atletico Madrid after his participation in the 2026 World Cup meant he had to take an extended break.

Even before the World Cup, Alvarez was the subject of intense interest from Arsenal, Barcelona and Real Madrid, with both Spanish clubs making offers to sign him. Atletico Madrid rejected both offers because they believe they need him and that now is not the right time to lose such an important player, even though Alvarez has asked to leave.

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Alvarez Wants A New Challenge

Alvarez wants to move to Barcelona, but Los Che do not want to do business with the Catalans, which gives Arsenal an advantage in the race for his signature. The Gunners believe the attacker could be theirs if he insists on leaving and Atletico decide to sell him outside Spain.

All his suitors have been waiting for him to return to Madrid, and according to Team Talk, Alvarez held a meeting with Diego Simeone to discuss his desire to leave the club.

During the meeting, the forward reiterated that he wants a new challenge. However, Simeone also insisted that Atletico will not sell him this summer. The manager also made it clear that a transfer decision is not ultimately his to make, as he is only the coach.

Arsenal May Need Another Target

Alvarez is expected to continue pushing for a move, but Atletico’s position appears clear. The Spanish club do not want to allow one of their most important players to leave during this transfer window.

That stance could make it difficult for Arsenal to secure the forward, even if Alvarez continues to insist on leaving. The Gunners may have an advantage if Atletico decide to sell him outside Spain, but there is currently little indication that the club is prepared to do so.

Barcelona and Real Madrid have already seen their offers rejected, while Atletico remain determined to keep Alvarez. His return to training also means the club can now focus on preparing for the new campaign with the forward back in the squad.

For Arsenal, the situation suggests they may need to consider other options. Alvarez could continue pushing for a new challenge, but if Atletico maintain their current position, the Gunners should probably look elsewhere for their attacking reinforcement this summer.

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