Arsenal handed new Julian Alvarez transfer update as Atletico Madrid respond to Barcelona deadline

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17 July 2026

Gunners have been linked with move for Atletico Madrid and Argentina star

Alvarez, currently preparing for the World Cup final against Spain with Argentina

, is Barcelona's top target this summer, though the LaLiga champions are experiencing difficulties getting a deal over the line.

Having already seen at least one bid rejected and Atletico’s refusal to sale to a direct rival,

Barca

have been told to trigger the €500million (£431m) release clause in Alvarez’s contract to bring him to the Camp Nou.

This ultimatum was revealed after Real Madrid had seen an audacious €150m (£129m) bid rejected at the beginning of June

In the latest twist to the ongoing saga,

Barcelona

president Joan Laporta has confirmed a very significant offer has been made for the 24-year-old, but has warned they have alternatives in mind if an agreement cannot be struck in the final weeks of July.

“We have made a very significant offer; if they are willing to accept it, fantastic, but it won’t be unlimited. We have to make a decision. Whether we maintain the offer or not depends on how these last two weeks of July unfold,” Laporta told SER.

“The player has spoken out, and that’s why the issue is still open. It’s clear that the player wants a change of scenery, and we are prepared to welcome him. We’ll see how it all unfolds.

“Deco is doing a great job. He’s brought in Adeyemi, whom we’ll sign next week . He’s working very efficiently and discreetly, as it should be done.

“Obviously, if the Julian deal falls through, we have alternatives.”

This has prompted a quickfire response fro Cerezo, maintaining Atletico’s desire to keep hold of Alvarez.

He said: "Joan Laporta is a good friend, he’s a great president, and he knows very well, as do all of you, where Julian Alvarez will be playing next year.”

He knows very well, as do all of you, where Julian Alvarez will be playing next year

Enrique Cerezo

Arsenal's interest in Alvarez dates back over a year, with Mikel Arteta reportedly weighing up making a move for the World Cup winner once again if a move to

does not materialise.

That said, the Argentine has his heart set on a move to the Camp Nou, telling ESPN last month: "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 [Atlético] who I needed to speak with. I think the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream."

Atletico Madrid president shuts down Barcelona’s Julian Alvarez pursuit: ‘Laporta knows where Alvarez will play’

Barca Universal

Joan Laporta confirms Barcelona bid for Julian Alvarez and issues strong warning to Atletico Madrid: ‘Offer is not valid forever’

Arsenal hold new talks with Atletico Madrid over deal for Barcelona target Julian Alvarez

Barca News Network

Barcelona set €100m limit for upcoming Julian Alvarez talks with Atletico Madrid

Atlético Madrid want a Barcelona midfielder in part-exchange for Julián Alvarez

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