Julian Alvarez: Man United transfer plot forces Atletico Madrid response | OneFootball

Manchester United’s interest in a blockbuster raid for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez has forced an immediate response from the Spanish giant, according to a new report.

A Versatile Forward

The Red Devils have decided to target a new attacker as the club begins to solidify its plan for the summer transfer window. An overhaul of the midfield is the priority, with two new recruits expected to arrive, while a left-sided player – be it a full-back or winger – is also on the agenda.

However, Manchester World reveals United intend to add a “versatile forward” to their ranks, despite the improvements in goal-scoring this season.

The club are understood to be pleased with Benjamin Sesko‘s progress, despite the 22-year-old Slovenian’s slow start to life at Old Trafford. But there is no remaining patience for his partner in crime up front, Joshua Zirkzee, who came close to departing in January.

The Netherlands international is expected to return to Italy come the summer, while Rasmus Hojlund – on loan at Napoli – will remain with the Serie A champions permanently.

Furthermore, doubt continues to swirl around the future of Bruno Fernandes, club captain and the team’s most influential player. Despite being redeployed in his rightful No. 10 position under Michael Carrick, after being bizarrely trialled as a deep-lying playmaker by Ruben Amorim, the Portuguese talisman is linked with a big-money move to Saudi Arabia.

Even if Fernandes remains, however, he turns 32 next season and INEOS must begin preparations for his eventual exit before he walks through the door, such is his importance to the team. It makes sense, therefore, for United to target a forward capable of playing as a striker or attacking midfielder, such as Argentine superstar Álvarez.

Eyed by Europe’s Elite

Spanish outlet Sport reveals the Red Devils are joined by Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea in the hunt for the Atleti frontman.

FC Barcelona are described as the frontrunners for the 26-year-old, with Álvarez understood to prefer a move to Camp Nou over the alternatives. However, the Catalan club are facing financial difficulties and would struggle to muster an offer to lure him across enemy lines.

This ramps up the prospect of a return to England, having previously thrived at Manchester City, given the economic strength of England’s elite.

Atlético are desperate to retain their prized asset, however. In an effort to fend off this growing interest, the Spanish side have already opened negotiations with Álvarez’s camp over an improved contract, despite his current deal running until 2030, the report details.

Final Thoughts

A raid for Álvarez will prove exorbitant for whoever wins the red-hot race for his signature, regardless of whether he signs a new deal or not. Spanish journalist Rubén Uría contends Atlético rejected a £105 million bid from Arsenal in January – a demonstration of the market value the Argentine World Cup winner holds.

United are unlikely to be able to compete with this valuation unless Fernandes seals his bombshell move first. But in this scenario, INEOS would need a statement signing to assuage a nervous fanbase in Manchester, which would then set a different group of fans into a state of intense worry in Madrid.

Feature image Angel Martinez via Getty Images

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