Atletico Madrid have sent a firm message to Arsenal regarding their interest in striker Julian Alvarez, according to reports from the London Evening Standard.
The Spanish club are said to have made their position clear after claims emerged that Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta had made contact over a potential move for the Argentine forward.
Julian Alvarez has been one of the most sought-after forwards in European football since completing his move to Atletico Madrid from Manchester City.
The World Cup winner impressed enormously during his debut campaign in the Spanish capital, cementing his place as a key figure in Diego Simeone’s attacking plans.
Arsenal have long been linked with a desire to bolster their attacking options, and Alvarez fits the profile of a dynamic, versatile forward that Arteta reportedly covets.
However, Atletico Madrid appear unwilling to enter into any negotiations over a player they regard as central to their ambitions for the coming seasons.
The club’s message to Arsenal is understood to be straightforward, signalling that Alvarez is not available and that no offer is expected to change that stance significantly.
Arsenal’s pursuit of a top striker has been a recurring theme in recent transfer windows, with the club eager to add more firepower alongside their existing forward options.
Mikel Arteta has consistently spoken about wanting to push Arsenal to the highest level, and landing a player of Alvarez’s calibre would represent a major statement of intent.
Atletico Madrid’s response is likely to cool Arsenal’s interest in the short term, though the club’s recruitment team is expected to continue monitoring the situation closely.
Julian Alvarez himself has shown no public indication that he is seeking a move away from the Metropolitano, having embraced life in Madrid since his arrival from the Premier League.
Whether Arsenal pursue alternative targets or continue to test Atletico’s resolve remains to be seen as the transfer window progresses throughout 2026.
