Manchester United 'begin talks to sign Julian Alvarez' with Arsenal advantage clear | OneFootball

Man Utd have ace up their sleeve in shock summer pursuit

Atletico Madrid forward has quickly become a key player in the summer transfer market, having been the subject of rejected bids from both Real Madrid and Barcelona this summer.

Real Madrid failed with a bid worth €150million (£130m) for Alvarez earlier this month, after Barcelona prompted Atleti's wrath for what the capital city club deemed an inappropriate transfer pursuit.

Atleti insist that the only way Alvarez leaves for Camp Nou is if Barca trigger his €500m (£431m) release clause, which has open the door to a move to Arsenal... and Man Utd.

Interest dates back over a year, with Mikel Arteta reportedly weighing up making a move for the World Cup winner last summer before plumping for Viktor Gyokeres.

London Standard

Alvarez is attracting plenty of interest, and now Man Utd are said to have thrown their hat into the ring - and could have moved ahead of Arsenal in the race for the player’s signature.

According to Spanish publication AS, Man Utd have spoken directly to Alvarez's agent

And report add that Atleti could be tempted by the move as they have interest in several of Man Utd's players, suggesting that a part-exchange deal could be in the offing.

Alvarez has not hidden his desire to leave the club, telling ESPN earlier this week: "I don't think it's the right moment to talk, but I also don't want to hide. I try to be an honest person.

"I spoke with the people at [Atletico] who I needed to speak with. I think the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream."