Key Takeaways
- Diego Simeone has admitted Arsenal want to sign Julian Alvarez, but FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain also want the striker.
- Atletico Madrid value the Argentina forward at £130 million and do not wish to sell him this summer.
- The two clubs will face each other in the Champions League semi-final first leg on Wednesday in Madrid.
Diego Simeone has revealed that Arsenal are interested in signing Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. The Atletico manager spoke about the transfer rumours during a press conference before his team hosts Arsenal in the Champions League semi-final first leg at the Metropolitano Stadium on Wednesday.
When reporters asked about Arsenal’s interest, Simeone said he does not know what Alvarez is thinking. However, he stated that top clubs naturally want excellent players. He named Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and FC Barcelona as clubs who admire the 26-year-old Argentina international.
Alvarez joined Atletico from Manchester City last year for £82 million. Since then, he has scored 48 goals in 104 matches for the Spanish club. He won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022 and also claimed Premier League titles and the Champions League with Manchester City.
Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, knows Alvarez well. Berta worked at Atletico when the club signed Alvarez from Manchester City. This connection could help Arsenal if they try to buy the player.
The North London club want to buy a new forward this summer. They also need a central midfielder and a full-back. However, Atletico do not want to lose Alvarez. They have set his price at £130 million. Sources close to the player suggest he would prefer to join FC Barcelona if he leaves, though other sources doubt he wants to move at all.
Alvarez missed Atletico’s last two matches because of a small injury. Doctors expect him to play against Arsenal on Wednesday.
Simeone spoke about the importance of the semi-final. This is Atletico’s fourth semi-final under his management and their first in nine years. He said he feels excitement, not pressure. He noted that his team lost 4-0 to Arsenal in the group stage in October, so they respect their opponent’s strength, especially at set-pieces.
Atletico captain Koke also spoke before the match. He said the team feels nervous excitement before big games, like a first date. He promised that Atletico will face a strong Arsenal side with full commitment.