Arsenal have made a decision on their pursuit of Julian Alvarez as the summer transfer window reaches its final stages.
The Gunners had identified the Atletico Madrid forward as an elite attacking target after winning the Premier League title.
Mikel Arteta’s side had shown a willingness to commit significant resources, with Atletico valuing Alvarez at around €150 million (£128 million).
The Argentine’s preference, however, has been to join Barcelona after deciding that he wants to leave Atletico Madrid.
Atletico have refused to entertain a transfer to their La Liga rivals, leaving Arsenal as another potential destination for the forward.
The Gunners explored several ways to make a move attractive, including assistance with relocating Alvarez’s extended family from Madrid.
Reports had also suggested the possibility of a future Barcelona clause being discussed as part of Arsenal’s attempts to convince him.
However, Arsenal’s position has now become clearer on deadline day.
According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal have turned their attention away from Julian Alvarez and are not hopeful of completing the transfer.
That stance could only change if Alvarez makes a last-minute change to his current position.
The 26-year-old had missed three consecutive Atletico training sessions because of illness before returning to first-team training.
Arsenal had previously carried out detailed assessments of Alvarez, including his injury record, physical data and playing output.
Those checks determined that he fitted the profile required by Arteta’s team, with the Arsenal manager keen on the forward.
Despite that interest, the Gunners are now assessing other options rather than expecting an Alvarez deal before the deadline.
Alvarez will consequently remain with Atletico Madrid unless there is a significant late change in circumstances.
Arsenal’s search for another forward can continue, but their blockbuster pursuit of Alvarez will not produce a deadline-day transfer.
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