Atletico Madrid have changed their transfer stance on Julian Alvarez as uncertainty continues around the Argentine forward’s future.
Alvarez wants to leave Atletico, with Barcelona remaining his preferred destination before the summer transfer window closes.
Barcelona have identified the 26-year-old as their priority option as they search for another centre-forward this summer.
However, Atletico have consistently resisted the possibility of allowing their star attacker to join their domestic rivals.
The situation has become increasingly difficult after Alvarez made his desire to leave clear both internally and publicly.
Arsenal have also maintained their interest and could offer the Argentine an opportunity to return to the Premier League.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Atletico Madrid are now prepared to negotiate Alvarez’s departure, but only if he joins Arsenal rather than Barcelona.
Atletico believe the situation surrounding their forward has become unsustainable and have therefore opened the door to negotiations.
However, CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin continues to oppose selling Alvarez to Barcelona and maintains his veto on that destination.
Arsenal could potentially provide Atletico with another advantage because Viktor Gyokeres has attracted interest from the Spanish club.
Diego Simeone would accept the Swedish striker, giving Atletico a possible replacement if Alvarez moves to North London.
However, Alvarez has rejected the proposal presented to him because he does not want to return to English football.
The forward previously played for Manchester City before leaving England and joining Atletico Madrid.
His rejection complicates Atletico’s preferred solution and keeps Barcelona firmly involved despite the Spanish club’s current stance.
Barcelona still need another number nine before the transfer deadline but could potentially wait until the January window.
For now, Atletico are ready to sanction their star forward’s departure, but remain determined to block a transfer to Barcelona.
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