Julián Álvarez transfer update: Arsenal’s pursuit blocked as Atletico dig in their heels

Julián Álvarez’s potential move to Arsenal has hit a wall before it even starts. **Atletico Madrid have told the club they will not sell the Argentina striker this summer**, according to *The Athletic FC*’s David Ornstein.

What’s the latest on Julián Álvarez’s transfer status?

Alvarez, 24, finished second at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Argentina on **22 December 2025**, losing 1-0 to Spain in the final. The striker has already told Atletico he wants to leave, with Barcelona among the clubs interested. But the Madrid outfit now insist he stays: even if Arsenal come in with a bid.

Ornstein, speaking on the *Athletic FC* podcast, said: “The word from Madrid is that they’re keeping him, and that’s been said publicly.” Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta still sees Alvarez as his top target. Yet the Gunners face a fight to prise him away from Atletico’s clutches.

Why is Atletico refusing to sell Julián Álvarez?

The club’s stance is simple: they don’t want to lose a player of Alvarez’s calibre for nothing. Selling to rivals Barcelona would be a non-starter given their shared league. So Atletico are holding firm: and waiting for a bid that matches their valuation.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have been linked with the Argentina international all summer. Arteta’s side have missed out on other targets, making Alvarez a priority. But the price tag could run into nine figures, and Atletico won’t blink first.

How would Julián Álvarez fit at Arsenal?

Alvarez brings Premier League experience from his time at Manchester City. He’s also firing in goals in La Liga, proving his sharpness in top-flight football. Ornstein reckons he’d be a **huge upgrade** on Arsenal’s current striking options: notably Viktor Gyokeres, the Swedish forward who had a solid first season in England.

A move for Alvarez would signal Arteta’s intent to push for the title. But the Gunners must weigh the cost against the reward. Every other club chasing him will face the same barrier: Atletico’s refusal to sell.

What happens next in the Julián Álvarez saga?

The transfer window is still open, but time is running out. Atletico’s stance hasn’t wavered, and Arsenal’s window to swoop may be closing. If Arteta can’t land Alvarez, he’ll need to look elsewhere: fast.

One thing is clear: Julián Álvarez won’t leave Atletico this summer unless they’re forced to act. And so far, they aren’t budging.