Arsenal are reportedly plotting a blockbuster move for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez in 2027, having failed to land him during the summer transfer window.
The Argentina international stayed at Atletico despite interest from Arsenal and Barcelona, leaving Mikel Arteta’s attacking options unchanged heading into the new campaign.
Paul Merson believes the failure to sign a top-level striker could prove costly for Arsenal in Europe’s premier club competition this season.
Merson said: “I think they’ll win the Premier League, but I think they’ll fall short in the Champions League because of not having that extra person up front. Havertz and Gyokeres, I like those two, but they are not going to give you sleepless nights.”
Alvarez boasts an impressive attacking record across his career, netting 54 goals in 122 appearances for River Plate before moving on to bigger stages.
At Manchester City, the Argentine contributed 36 goals and 19 assists in 103 appearances, before joining Atletico Madrid where he has since added 49 goals and 17 assists in 108 games.
Presenter Jack Collins has also praised what Alvarez offers beyond his goal contributions, highlighting his work off the ball as a particularly valuable asset.
According to a report from Caught Offside, Arsenal have Alvarez shortlisted alongside AFC Bournemouth star Eli Junior Kroupi as they plan their 2027 recruitment strategy.
The striker favoured a move to Barcelona during the summer, but Atletico were unwilling to strengthen a direct La Liga rival, which may complicate any future pursuit by the Gunners.
International colleague Franco Mastantuono has described Alvarez as “one of the best players in the world,” underlining just how significant a signing this would be for Arsenal.
Viktor Gyokeres arrived at Arsenal as their marquee signing last summer and produced 14 goals and one assist across 36 Premier League appearances, a solid if unspectacular return.
talkSPORT pundit Ally McCoist believes Alvarez would represent a clear upgrade on the Sweden international despite that reasonable output.
McCoist said: “His figures have been good, and I think he’s actually progressed and got better as the season’s gone forward. I do think Alvarez would be a step-up. I think he’s got a bit more quality.”
McCoist added: “I think Arteta might look again at Gyokeres and expect continued improvement, again, which I think would be a realistic proposition.”
Andrea Berta and the Arsenal recruitment team retain a strong interest in the £207,000-a-week forward, though his own willingness to move to the Emirates Stadium remains a key factor in whether a deal could be done.