Julian Alvarez remains one of Arsenal’s biggest targets.
The Atletico Madrid star has been linked with a move to the Emirates for months, and it is easy to understand why. He is one of the most complete forwards in world football and would instantly improve almost any team on the planet.
There is just one problem.
Alvarez’s preferred destination is believed to be Barcelona. That reality has made Arsenal’s pursuit far more complicated, but Andrea Berta has not given up hope yet.
In fact, there is one key reason why the Gunners remain firmly in the race.
Imagine you are Andrea Berta. Who is your top target for Arsenal in the summer transfer window?
Julian Alvarez’s camp have assured Arsenal they will be kept informed
Arsenal’s interest in Julian Alvarez has never really gone away.
The Gunners are still looking for another elite attacker, and there are very few players available who would raise the ceiling of Mikel Arteta’s side as much as the Argentine.
That is why Berta has continued to keep tabs on the situation despite suggestions that Barcelona are currently the player’s preferred destination.
According to TeamTalk, Arsenal have received an important assurance from Alvarez’s camp.
The report claims the Gunners have been told they will be kept informed if and when the striker’s stance changes regarding a potential move away from Spain.
That may not sound like much, but it is significant.
Rather than being completely shut out of the conversation, Arsenal remain in the loop and would know immediately if the door starts to open.
The outlet adds that this assurance is one of the main reasons Arsenal have refused to walk away from the deal altogether.
As things stand, Alvarez still appears more interested in Barcelona, but Arsenal clearly believe there is enough uncertainty in the situation to justify staying patient.
What is the highest fee you would pay to sign Julian Alvarez for Arsenal?
Is he worth more than Declan Rice?👀
Arsenal should set a firm deadline for Julian Alvarez
Patience is important in the transfer market, but so is knowing when to move on. Arsenal cannot spend the entire summer waiting for Alvarez to make up his mind.
The club have other targets, other negotiations to conduct and other positions to strengthen. If they focus too heavily on one player for too long, they risk missing out elsewhere.
That is why Berta should establish a clear deadline.
If Alvarez has not indicated a willingness to join Arsenal by that point, the Gunners should turn their attention elsewhere and pursue players who are fully committed to the project.
There is no shame in chasing a world-class talent, but Arsenal are now Premier League champions and Champions League finalists. They should not be spending months trying to convince somebody to choose them.
Alvarez would be an incredible signing, but only if he genuinely wants to be at Arsenal. If that answer does not arrive soon, Berta should walk away and focus on other elite options.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
