Julian Alvarez responds to idea of Arsenal transfer after Atletico Madrid 'agree to enter into negotiations'

Atletico Madrid have agreed to enter into negotiations with Arsenal over the transfer of Julian Alvarez but the player 'is not keen' and has his heart set on joining Barcelona, according to a new report.

Alvarez has publicly expressed his desire to leave Atletico to "fulfil his dream", which is understood to be a move to the Catalan giants.

The 26-year-old forward, who joined Los Colchoneros from Manchester City in 2024 for £81.5 million, is ready for a new challenge after recording 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 games for Diego Simeone's side.

"I spoke with the people at [Atletico] I needed to speak with, and the best thing for everyone is a transfer. I want to fulfil my dream," Alvarez said at the World Cup in June.

"It's ‌not the time ‌to talk about this, but I also can't ‌hide it. I try to be an honest person."

Two months on and Alvarez is still waiting on his so-called dream move. Atletico appear reluctant to let the Argentine leave for Barcelona but they are open to negotiating with Mikel Arteta's Arsenal.

That's according to a report from Mundo Deportivo that claims the club's management has agreed to enter into transfer talks with the defending Premier League champions, who are interested in a move.

However, Alvarez is 'not keen' on the proposed transfer and still wants to sign for Barca.

"The situation of Julian at Atletico Madrid is now untenable, and Atletico has recognised this," the report adds. "However, they maintain their veto on Barcelona, ​​who continue to prioritise Julián as their target."

Alvarez has reportedly 'said no' to Arsenal. Image credit: Getty

It seems a move to the Camp Nou may prove difficult before the window slams shut. Barca are said to have ended their pursuit of Alvarez this summer, according to a report from ESPN, which suggests they are exploring other striker options.

Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to be linked with the former River Plate man.

Julian Alvarez was left out of Atletico Madrid's squad for La Liga opener

Amid speculation around his immediate future, Alvarez was left out of Atletico's opening game of the La Liga season against Malaga on Wednesday.

Diego Simeone explained that his omission was partly down to his time with Argentina at the World Cup, although Spanish pair Marcos Llorente and Alex Baena featured on the bench despite reaching the final.

"I still think the same way," said Simeone. "I take care of the sporting side. We've been talking as we always do. From a sporting perspective, we need more training sessions with him so he can improve. He's one of the best attacking players... if not the best."