Arsenal pursue Julian Alvarez amid Barcola unavailability, Tottenham captain Cristian Romero could depart

By Brian Otieno — 14 July 2026 — 4 min read

Arsenal’s Pursuit of Julian Alvarez

Arsenal are reportedly pushing to secure a deal for Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez before the pre-season period commences. This intensified effort comes as competition for the Argentina forward appears to have decreased. Alvarez, who scored an extra-time winner for Argentina in their 3-1 victory over Switzerland in the World Cup, has been a primary attacking target for Mikel Arteta.

While Alvarez is reportedly open to a move to Arsenal, his initial preference was to remain in Spain, potentially with either Barcelona or Real Madrid. However, Atletico Madrid has expressed a strong reluctance to sell him to either of these rival clubs. This stance has been evident through various social media posts from Atletico Madrid, which indicate their aggravation with the public nature of the campaigns conducted by both Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The pursuit of Alvarez by Arsenal has also been influenced by the unavailability of other targets. Previously, Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola was considered a potential option for Arsenal. However, despite earlier encouragement that a deal for Barcola might be possible, PSG is now reportedly keen to retain the young forward, leading Arsenal to shift their focus back to Alvarez.

Financial considerations have been a factor in the negotiations for Alvarez. Arsenal has reportedly been hesitant to exceed £90m for the player, while Atletico Madrid is seeking a fee in excess of £100m. The negotiations also involve Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, engaging with his former club, Atletico Madrid, which adds another layer to the discussions.

Another potential aspect of a deal for Alvarez could involve a player exchange. Reports suggest that Arsenal has explored the possibility of including Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres, 28, as part of a transfer package for Alvarez. Similarly, Barcelona is also said to be considering offering one of their players as part of a deal for Alvarez, and they plan to resume their pursuit of him after the World Cup.

Other Transfer Speculations and Club Interests

Beyond the interest in Julian Alvarez, several other transfer developments are being reported across various clubs. Liverpool has reportedly made fresh contact with Paris Saint-Germain regarding a potential summer move for France forward Bradley Barcola, 23. This indicates a continued interest from Liverpool in strengthening their squad with the young talent.

In other news concerning Liverpool, the club has reportedly rejected a new approach for midfielder Curtis Jones. Inter Milan’s improved bid of approximately £27m for the 25-year-old England midfielder was deemed insufficient, falling short of Liverpool’s £30m asking price. This suggests Liverpool is keen to retain Jones or secure a higher valuation for his services.

Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero, 28, is reportedly set to leave the club this summer. Barcelona is said to be interested in the Argentina defender, indicating a potential significant move for the player. This could represent a notable change for Tottenham’s defensive line-up.

Barcelona also has other transfer plans, including their intention to offer Spain forward Ferran Torres, 26, a new contract. This decision comes amidst interest from Paris Saint-Germain. However, Barcelona plans to defer these contract discussions until September due to existing financial regulations, highlighting the careful management of their finances.

Arsenal is also reportedly looking to offload Brazil forward Gabriel Jesus, 29, with AC Milan identified as one of the leading contenders to sign him. This potential departure could free up resources and squad space for Arsenal’s other transfer ambitions.

Elsewhere, Sunderland is reportedly close to finalising the signing of Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier, 34. This move follows Meunier’s departure from Lille, suggesting a new chapter for the experienced defender in the English Football League.

Everton has reportedly intensified their long-standing interest in Genoa’s Brooke Norton-Cuffy, 22. Recent talks have taken place regarding a potential move for the England Under-21 defender, indicating Everton’s efforts to bolster their squad with young talent.

Finally, Crysencio Summerville’s agents have reportedly met with Roma concerning the Netherlands forward, 24, joining them from West Ham. Additionally, USA goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina, 22, is currently on trial with Strasbourg, with a potential move from Chelsea in view.

Source: bbc.com