Atletico Madrid are reportedly prepared to sanction Julian Alvarez’s departure this summer, but only if Arsenal are willing to include Viktor Gyokeres as part of a blockbuster swap deal.
According to Spanish outlet COPE, the LaLiga giants have identified Sporting CP striker Gyokeres as their preferred replacement and could use Alvarez’s future to facilitate a move for the prolific Swedish international.
The report comes just days after Alvarez publicly confirmed that he wants to leave Atletico Madrid, fuelling speculation over his next destination.
Barcelona have been strongly linked with the Argentina international in recent weeks. However, Atletico are reluctant to strengthen one of their direct domestic rivals and would rather negotiate with clubs outside Spain.
That stance has opened the door for Arsenal, who are long-time admirers of both Alvarez and Gyokeres as Mikel Arteta continues his search for a world-class centre-forward ahead of the new season.
COPE reports that Atletico would value Alvarez at between €60 million and €80 million, but any deal involving Arsenal would also require Gyokeres to move in the opposite direction.
The Swedish striker has enjoyed a remarkable rise over the past two seasons, establishing himself as one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards with his prolific goalscoring exploits. His performances have attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, who have monitored him extensively.
Should Arsenal decide to pursue Alvarez instead, Atletico are reportedly hoping Gyokeres could become part of the negotiations, allowing Diego Simeone’s side to secure a proven goalscorer while granting Alvarez his desired exit.
Barcelona, meanwhile, face a much steeper challenge if they hope to sign the former Manchester City forward.
The report claims Atletico will insist that the Catalan club trigger Alvarez’s €500 million release clause if they want to complete a deal, effectively pricing Barcelona out of the race unless they are willing to meet the extraordinary valuation.
With Alvarez openly seeking a new challenge and several elite clubs searching for attacking reinforcements, the Argentine is expected to be one of the biggest names in this summer’s transfer window.
Whether Arsenal are prepared to sacrifice Gyokeres to secure Alvarez remains to be seen, but Atletico Madrid have reportedly made their position clear: any deal with the Gunners will have to include the Swedish striker.
Galaxy Sports Production
Should we send you latest update about your favourite sports and team?
Enter you email in the box below and hit the subscribe button to join our teaming 876+ sports community.
