Arsenal send Julian Alvarez new transfer message after latest Atletico Madrid decision

Arsenal has told Atletico Madrid that their interest in Julian Alvarez is unwavering, despite the player's clear stance that he would rather join Barcelona this season.

Reigning Premier League champions Arsenal are on track to retain their crown in the 2026/27 season by getting off to a winning start and bolstering their squad with even greater depth.

The addition of Ezri Konsa adds to incomings such as Bruno Guimaraes, Christos Tzolis, and Illan Meslier, solidifying every area of the park.

But despite looking back to their best already with a classy 3-0 showing against Coventry, the North London club is still hunting for another marquee forward in Julian Alvarez.

The former Manchester City forward has informed Atletico Madrid that he wants to pursue a move to Barcelona, calling his future at the Metropolitano Stadium into question.

However, Alvarez rejected Arsenal, claiming that a Barcelona move would 'fulfil my dream.'

Despite that, famed transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano claimed that Arsenal is still in pursuit of Alvarez if Barcelona can't make the move possible.

Taking a new transfer round-up on YouTube, the journalist said, "Arsenal told those close to the deal to keep them informed in case Julian decides to open doors to English football.

"As of today, the position of [Alvarez] is still the same. Not to Arsenal, but Barcelona. Julian is not rejecting Arsenal. [Alvarez] only wants to go to Barcelona. So that's the reality. It's not about Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Bayern, and PSG, [Alvarez] only wants to go to Barcelona.

"But after the contact they had on Friday with Atletico Madrid, meeting in London, Arsenal want to be informed by the side in case something changes. Arsenal respect that the player is very expensive, but financially they can still try to find a way. They respect that the player wants to go to Barcelona, but in case, in the next eight days, [Alvarez] changes his mind, Arsenal want to get the information in order to re-enter the deal."

Barcelona are still in pursuit of a new striker option, and have reportedly prioritised Alvarez, although the financial details haven't been agreed upon.

The second name on the list could also have ramifications for Arsenal, as out-of-favour striker Viktor Gyokeres has reportedly been offering himself to the Spanish champions.

Arsenal has used Gyokeres' wandering eye to pitch a potential swap deal to Atletico Madrid, plus a bumper £65m fee.

Alvarez's unrest at Atletico Madrid has reportedly caused a 'strained' relationship with Diego Simeone, and the Argentine striker was left out of the team's squad for the opening La Liga fixture against Malaga.

All eyes will be on the team sheet later today as Atletico take on Villarreal at home.