Julian AlvarezPlayer·Julian Alvarez has reportedly rejected the possibility of joining ArsenalTeam·Arsenal this summer, dealing a blow to the Premier LeagueCompetition·Premier League champions' transfer ambitions. The Atletico MadridTeam·Atletico Madrid striker, who netted 20 goals across all competitions in the 2025/26 season, has been extensively linked with a move to the Emirates StadiumVenue·Emirates Stadium but favors a switch to BarcelonaTeam·Barcelona instead.
ArsenalTeam·Arsenal concluded their triumphant 2025/26 campaign by securing their first Premier LeagueCompetition·Premier League title since 2004, finishing with 85 points from 26 wins, seven draws and five losses. Their domestic success was accompanied by a remarkable run to the Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League final, where they ultimately fell to Paris Saint-GermainTeam·Paris Saint-Germain on penalties.
According to Spanish outlet Cadena SER, Alvarez has no desire to relocate to London despite ArsenalTeam·Arsenal's willingness to finance a significant deal. The Argentina international has reportedly agreed personal terms on a five-year contract with BarcelonaTeam·Barcelona, though negotiations between the Catalan club and Atletico MadridTeam·Atletico Madrid remain at a standstill.
Atletico MadridTeam·Atletico Madrid president Enrique CerezoCoach·Enrique Cerezo has publicly stated that Alvarez, whose contract runs until 2030, is not for sale. The club's reluctance to sell to BarcelonaTeam·Barcelona, coupled with Alvarez's preference for the Camp NouVenue·Camp Nou, leaves ArsenalTeam·Arsenal as the only realistic option capable of meeting Atletico's valuation. However, the striker's firm aversion to life in the English capital makes a departure from Madrid increasingly unlikely.
In a separate development, ArsenalTeam·Arsenal have launched what French media describe as a revenge plan against their Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League final opponents by pursuing PSG's promising defender Emmanuel Mbemba. The 18-year-old left-sided center-back, who can also operate as a full-back, is approaching the end of his youth contract at the Parc des Princes.
PSG have offered Mbemba his first professional contract, but the teenager appears set to leave the club. ArsenalTeam·Arsenal have presented their project to the defender following extensive scouting missions throughout the season, positioning themselves alongside Ligue 1 outfit Paris FCTeam·Paris FC in the race for his signature.
The potential acquisition of Mbemba faces complications, however, as work permit regulations may prevent him from joining ArsenalTeam·Arsenal immediately. This obstacle could strengthen Paris FCTeam·Paris FC's prospects of securing the prospect from their local rivals.
ArsenalTeam·Arsenal's pursuit of both players reflects their ambition to build upon their successful 2025/26 campaign, during which they averaged 1.9 goals per game while maintaining a clean sheet in 50% of their matches. Having ended their 22-year wait for the Premier LeagueCompetition·Premier League title and reached their first Champions LeagueCompetition·Champions League final since 2006, the club seeks to extend the gap between themselves and their rivals in the upcoming season.
Julian Alvarez in action for Atletico de Madrid during a Champions League semi-final against Arsenal. ZUMA Press Wire/IMAGO
ZUMA Press Wire/IMAGOThis article was generated by AI (gemini-2.5-flash). Learn more.
