Atletico Madrid is pushing for a resolution on Julian Alvarez's future by Friday, effectively giving the 26-year-old a deadline to make a decision. This comes as Arsenal continues its efforts to sign the Argentine forward.
Alvarez's primary ambition is reportedly to move to Barcelona. However, Atletico Madrid has reiterated its stance this week that it does not want to do business with its LaLiga rivals. Barcelona would need to make an offer of around €150m (£128m), but both Atletico and Arsenal believe the Spanish champions currently lack the budget for such a bid.
Arsenal's strategy has been to wait for the situation to potentially tilt in their favour closer to the end of the transfer window. The Gunners may also have an advantage by offering players in exchange, with Atletico manager Diego Simeone reportedly interested in strengthening his attack with either Viktor Gyokeres or Gabriel Jesus. An offer including one or both players, alongside a financial fee, could significantly aid a deal.
Despite Alvarez's initial desire to remain in Spain for lifestyle, family, and Barcelona's stature, his view on a move to Arsenal is understood to have softened. He has been made aware that Arsenal would play him in his preferred position and build their attack around him, following a season where Simeone reportedly used him in an unusual role.