Andrea Berta has held talks with the Argentine striker as Arsenal step up their interest
Arsenal have made significant progress in their pursuit of Julián Álvarez after sporting director Andrea Berta held fresh talks with the Argentina international. According to reports, Atlético Madrid would prefer to sell the 26-year-old to Arsenal rather than domestic rivals Real Madrid or Barcelona if they eventually sanction his departure, with any Premier League deal expected to cost between €130 million and €150 million.
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| Arsenal could finally land Julián Álvarez after major breakthrough |
Arsenal intensify talks with Álvarez
Berta, who previously signed Álvarez for Atlético during his time in Madrid, has maintained a strong relationship with the striker and is leading Arsenal's pursuit. While no agreement has been reached between the clubs, discussions with the player's camp have reportedly moved in a positive direction as Mikel Arteta looks to add another elite forward to his squad.
Álvarez enjoyed another outstanding 2025/26 season, making 54 appearances in all competitions, scoring 31 goals and providing 11 assists. The World Cup winner has become one of Europe's most complete forwards thanks to his versatility, pressing ability and clinical finishing.
Atlético set clear conditions for any sale
Despite Arsenal's growing interest, Atlético Madrid remain in a strong negotiating position. The Spanish club are prepared to consider offers from abroad but are reluctant to strengthen direct La Liga rivals, making Arsenal a more acceptable destination than either Real Madrid or Barcelona. Reports suggest a fee in the region of €130m-€150m would be required to open formal negotiations.
While talks with the player have advanced, Arsenal have yet to reach a club-to-club agreement with Atlético. The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as the Gunners assess whether to launch one of the biggest transfer bids in their history for the Argentine star.