Arsenal are accelerating their efforts to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid before pre-season preparations get underway this summer.
The Independent has reported that the Gunners are looking to expedite their pursuit of the Argentine forward as interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid has cooled.
Alvarez has publicly expressed his desire to leave Atletico Madrid, placing his future firmly in the spotlight heading into the final stages of the World Cup.
The 26-year-old prefers to remain in La Liga, but he is open to a move abroad if the right opportunity presents itself this transfer window.
Atletico Madrid have placed a £128 million price tag on the player, making this one of the most expensive potential deals of the summer transfer window.
Whether Atletico would soften their valuation for clubs outside Spain remains uncertain, but Arsenal appear willing to test the Spanish club’s resolve.
Mikel Arteta is keen to rebuild his attacking department, and Alvarez offers considerable versatility as a striker, left winger, and occasionally as a number ten.
The former Manchester City man works hard without the ball, pressing effectively while remaining lethal in the final third with intelligent positioning and clinical finishing.
Alvarez brings enormous experience at the highest level, having won both a World Cup and the treble with Manchester City during his time in England.
That winning pedigree would serve Arsenal well as they look to build on their Premier League success from last season under Arteta’s leadership.
In a potential partnership with Viktor Gyokeres, Alvarez could thrive as a left winger linking up with a striker who holds the ball effectively and creates chances for teammates.
With the World Cup set to conclude next week, a resolution on Alvarez’s future is expected to come quickly, and Arsenal are positioning themselves to move fast.