Arsenal have emerged as Atlético Madrid’s preferred Premier League partner should Julián Álvarez ever leave the Metropolitano this summer. The Gunners are ready to offer Viktor Gyökeres in a swap plus a substantial fee, sources tell Cadena SER journalist Miguel Martín Talavera.

What’s driving the Arsenal link?

Julián Álvarez has been labelled by Karen Carney as ‘the most complete centre-forward in football’ after winning the treble and a World Cup with River Plate and Manchester City. Since moving to Atlético in 2023, he has started 87 games, scored 49 goals and added 22 assists across all competitions. Mikel Arteta’s front line remains one target-rich area, and Andrea Berta has explored upgrades across the squad. Convincing Atlético to sell is the hurdle: club CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has repeatedly stated Álvarez is not for sale, and Barcelona’s months-long pursuit has only hardened Atlético’s stance.

Why Atlético would consider Arsenal over Barça

Talavera reports Atlético see Barcelona as a direct rival they will not strengthen, citing strained relations after Barça’s aggressive pursuit of Álvarez. That leaves Arsenal as the most credible destination if the player forces a move. Atlético would look to replace Álvarez with Gyökeres, who has 11 goals and 4 assists in 2026 so far, and a cash sum to sweeten the deal. “If he absolutely wants to leave, he’s obviously not going to Barcelona,” Talavera said. “Other options will be considered, and the strongest one is Arsenal.”

Arsenal’s recent form gives them leverage: they sit top of the Premier League with a five-game winning streak and a seven-point cushion over Manchester City. Their next fixture is against Chelsea at home on 6 September 2026.

League standing (final 2025 table - new season not yet under way): 1st in Premier League, 85 pts, 26W-7D-5L from 38 games, recent form WWWWW. Goals this season: 71 scored, 27 conceded (+44 goal difference). Lead at the top: 7 points clear of Manchester City. Last result: Crystal Palace 1-2 Arsenal (2026-05-24). Recent form (last 5): 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW, most recent first); on a 5-game winning run. Next fixture: vs Chelsea (at home, 2026-09-06) (10th in the table).