Arsenal Exploring Summer Move for Julian Alvarez Amid Viktor Gyokeres Struggles

Arsenal explore Julian Alvarez transfer option as Viktor Gyokeres struggles to deliver in debut Premier League season.

Arsenal are said to be considering a summer move for Atlético Madrid striker Julián Álvarez, according to ESPN. The Gunners’ interest comes amid frustration with Viktor Gyökeres, whose performances have fallen short of the prolific standards he set at Sporting Lisbon. This potential transfer highlights Mikel Arteta’s intent to strengthen his attacking options as Arsenal continue their pursuit of trophies across several competitions.

Despite Arsenal competing on multiple fronts during the 2025–26 season, the Swedish striker’s output has failed to match expectations, prompting internal conversations about whether further reinforcement is required.

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Last summer, Arsenal explored several elite striker options while searching for a reliable goalscorer. Arsenal assessed Julian Alvarez, then at Manchester City, and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko before committing to Gyokeres in a deal worth around £63 million.

Gyokeres’ extraordinary record in Portugal, where he averaged close to a goal per game across two seasons with Sporting CP, convinced Arsenal that his physicality and pressing style would translate smoothly to the Premier League.

Viktor Gyokeres numbers raise concern at Arsenal

That transition has proven more difficult than expected. Gyokeres has scored just nine goals in 27 appearances across all competitions, with only five coming in the Premier League. His struggles extend beyond finishing, with league data placing him bottom among Premier League strikers for ball retention.

Arsenal’s attacking rhythm has suffered at times, particularly when high-quality chances have gone unfinished. Injuries have forced Arteta to experiment, including using Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker, but consistency has remained elusive.

Arteta has defended Gyokeres publicly, pointing to tactical adjustments and squad dynamics as contributing factors. The Arsenal manager highlighted how Kai Havertz’s positional flexibility alters attacking relationships depending on opponents and game plans.

While Arteta remains supportive, sources close to the club suggest patience is not unlimited as Arsenal aim to convert dominance into silverware.

With uncertainty surrounding Gyokeres, Arsenal have revisited their interest in Julian Alvarez. The 26-year-old World Cup winner has flourished since joining Atletico Madrid from Manchester City in 2024, scoring 40 goals in 85 appearances under Diego Simeone.

Alvarez’s relentless pressing, tactical intelligence, and finishing ability align closely with Arteta’s demands for a modern No. 9 capable of operating across the frontline.

Sporting director Andrea Berta plays a crucial role in Arsenal’s renewed interest. Berta spent over a decade at Atletico Madrid and was instrumental in bringing Alvarez to the Spanish capital. He also maintains a strong working relationship with the player’s agent.

Arsenal have made informal enquiries to assess the feasibility of a summer deal, although Alvarez remains under contract until 2030 with a reported €500 million release clause.

Transfer reality and competition for Alvarez

Despite the release clause, Atletico may consider offers exceeding €100 million if Alvarez pushes for a move. Barcelona have shown interest but continue to battle financial restrictions, potentially giving Arsenal an advantage if they decide to act decisively.

Alvarez has played down speculation, insisting his focus remains on Atletico Madrid and continued personal development.

A move for Alvarez could significantly reshape Arsenal’s forward line. Gabriel Jesus, whose contract expires in 2027, has yet to open renewal talks, and the club remains open to offers in the summer.

Alvarez’s arrival would provide Arteta with a high-level focal point capable of leading the line or rotating fluidly with Kai Havertz, reinforcing Arsenal’s push for Premier League and Champions League success.

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