Atletico Madrid plot shock Arsenal deal involving Swedish forward to block Barcelona move for Julian Alvarez | OneFootball

Julian Alvarez’s future has become one of the biggest stories of the summer, especially after his recent public comments regarding a departure from Atletico Madrid. 

While Barcelona remain heavily linked with the Argentine international, the Madrid club appear determined to prevent a direct transfer to their domestic rivals.

In fact, according to COPE, Atletico are now studying a potential deal with Arsenal that could completely alter the situation and leave Barcelona empty-handed.

Atletico explore Arsenal formula involving Gyokeres

The latest report suggests Atletico Madrid have effectively closed the door on any negotiations with Barcelona regarding Alvarez.

The club’s leadership views the matter as a question of principle and has decided that a transfer to the Catalan giants is not an option they are willing to consider.

Atletico Madrid will not let Alvarez join Barcelona. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

Instead, attention has shifted towards the Premier League, where Arsenal have emerged as a possible destination for the World Cup-winning forward.

COPE reports that Atletico are exploring a deal that would send Alvarez to North London while bringing Viktor Gyokeres to the Metropolitano. 

In addition to the Swedish striker, Arsenal would include a financial package worth somewhere between €40 million and €60 million.

Such an agreement would allow Atletico to secure a natural centre-forward while also receiving a significant financial boost.

Barcelona remain Alvarez’s preferred destination

Despite Arsenal’s interest and the possibility of a creative swap arrangement, reports continue to indicate that Alvarez’s preferred destination remains Barcelona.

Julian Alvarez wants to play for Barcelona. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

The Argentine has been linked with the Blaugrana for months and is believed to be attracted by the opportunity to become a key figure in Hansi Flick’s project.

However, Atletico Madrid are unwilling to facilitate a move to Barcelona and are prepared to take a hard-line approach if necessary. 

Their position is so firm that they would rather keep the player at the club than accept conditions they consider unfavourable.

That determination could make Barcelona’s pursuit increasingly difficult, regardless of the player’s personal wishes.

Simply put, with Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain also monitoring the situation, Atletico know there are alternative routes available if they are forced into selling the Argentine, and Barcelona are not one of those.