Atletico Madrid tell Arsenal and PSG that Julian Alvarez is not for sale

Atletico Madrid have ended speculation over Julian Alvarez by informing Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and the Argentina forward himself that he will not be allowed to leave during the current season.

According to TEAMtalk, the decision rules out a move in the January transfer window and brings months of interest in the World Cup winner to an immediate conclusion.

Arsenal’s pursuit comes to a halt

Arsenal spent much of the summer monitoring Alvarez’s situation at the Wanda Metropolitano, as uncertainty surrounded the future of the Atletico Madrid forward, who had shown a strong desire to leave.

Barcelona was understood to be Alvarez’s preferred destination. However, Atletico Madrid remained firmly opposed to selling him to their direct La Liga rivals.

Despite rejecting the possibility of a move to Barcelona, the Spanish club took a more unexpected position towards Arsenal. Confidential discussions were held in London with Andrea Berta, during which the English club explored the prospect of bringing the World Cup winner back to England.

Arsenal maintained regular contact with Alvarez’s representatives and knew that Barcelona remained his first choice. Although a move to north London was a possibility, Alvarez did not push strongly for it to happen during the summer transfer window.

The Gunners continued speaking to people close to the player after the window closed, hoping he would become more receptive to a different destination in January. That appeared to be happening, with Alvarez reportedly becoming more open to leaving for another club and Arsenal moving towards the front of the queue for his signature.

Atletico Madrid’s latest decision means Arsenal must now consider alternative ways to strengthen their attack. The club’s admiration for Alvarez remains, but any attempt to sign him will have to wait until the summer.

The situation also has a direct impact on Viktor Gyokeres. Any possible departure for the Arsenal forward now appears more likely to be considered only during the summer transfer window.

Paris Saint-Germain also accept Atletico stance

Paris Saint-Germain have also had to accept Atletico Madrid’s position after maintaining a long-term interest in Alvarez.

The French club’s position was not expected to change even after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia suffered the injury that ended his season. Sources within Paris Saint-Germain say manager Luis Enrique is completely unwilling to sign a player simply to provide a temporary replacement for the Georgia international.

As a result, Kvaratskhelia’s absence has not altered the club’s view, while Atletico Madrid’s refusal means Alvarez will remain at the Spanish club for the rest of the current season.