In-demand Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez has reportedly delivered a definitive answer to Mikel Arteta, informing the Arsenal manager he will not be signing for the Gunners this summer.

The news brings a potential end to Arsenal’s pursuit of the Argentine, despite the North London club being prepared to reach a club-to-club agreement with Atletico Madrid. The Gunners have been active in the transfer market, securing the signatures of Bruno Guimaraes, Ezri Konsa, Piero Hincapie, and Christos Tzolis this window.

Alvarez turns down Gunners

The update on Alvarez’s future comes from The Athletic’s David Ornstein, who provided insights into the complex transfer situation. While Atletico Madrid were amenable to a deal with Arsenal, the player’s personal preference proved to be the stumbling block.

“At the time of reporting, there is a low chance that Julian Alvarez comes to Arsenal,” Ornstein stated on TNT Sports. “Atletico Madrid would do a deal with Arsenal. Arsenal are prepared to reach a club-to-club agreement, but they would want the player to want to join them. Alvarez has shown no indication of wanting to join at this point. He’s spoken to Mikel Arteta & said that he doesn’t want to come. That could change, these situations are always movable, so I don’t want to say it won’t happen, but right now, it’s NOT developing.”

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This rejection leaves Arsenal to explore other options, while Alvarez’s future remains uncertain, albeit with a reduced list of potential destinations.

Atletico’s firm stance and player’s uncertain future

Alvarez has been the subject of intense transfer speculation throughout the summer. Barcelona had initially appeared to be a strong contender for his signature, with president Joan Laporta publicly expressing interest. However, Atletico Madrid CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marín vehemently ruled out any possibility of a transfer to their La Liga rivals.

“The truth is that it outrages us even more; we are repulsed by the dishonesty, the lack of ethics, transparency and professionalism, and we can only insist that we will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances,” Gil Marín declared. “I have the support of everyone working with me, from shareholders to directors, and the only certain and firm decision is that we will not negotiate with Barcelona under any circumstances. You have my word – the player will most certainly not be transferred to Barcelona.”

The forward’s situation at Atletico has grown increasingly tense. He was booed by home supporters during Atleti’s recent draw against Villarreal and will play no part in the club’s upcoming fixture against Sevilla. Atletico head coach Diego Simeone acknowledged the player’s absence:

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“From the moment he returns to training, I will do everything I can to make him feel important. I’m still in the same position, hoping, from a sporting point of view, to be able to help him in the best way so that he continues to be the very important player he is for us. Julian will not be there [on Saturday] against Sevilla, who have just won two games and will be high with confidence.”

Adding another twist, Spanish outlet MARCA reported on Friday that Alvarez’s former club Manchester City had entered the race to sign him on loan. However, subsequent reports suggest Alvarez is not keen on a return to the Etihad. Atletico have now set a deadline for the player, giving him until Sunday (August 30) to make a final decision on his future, according to Sky Sports. Alvarez remains under contract with Atletico until 2030.

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