Julian Alvarez is not considering a move to Arsenal despite Mikel Arteta’s side being the only realistic option in the summer transfer window, according to reports.
Barcelona have made Alvarez one of their top targets but their opening bid of €100 million (£86.4m) has been rejected by Atletico Madrid.
Arsenal are also interested in a deal for the Argentina international and reports in Spain this week have claimed that the Premier League champions plan to begin talks with Atletico.
However, Cadena SER reports that Alvarez’s situation is ‘absolutely at a standstill’ as Atletico are refusing to negotiate with Barcelona.
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The report described Arsenal as Alvarez’s ‘only realistic option on the table right now’ but the 26-year-old has no intention of joining the Gunners.
Atletico are said to be ‘confident’ that Alvarez will stay at the club and are already planning for next season with the Argentine as part of Diego Simeone’s squad.
Alvarez, who joined Atletico in an £81.5 million deal from Manchester City two years ago, is with Argentina’s squad for their World Cup campaign, which begins against Algeria on June 17.
Atletico, meanwhile, are planning to strengthen Simeone’s squad ahead of the new season and are targeting a deal for Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella.
Chelsea are open to selling the Spain international but are looking for a €70m (£61m) transfer fee.
Atletico are also in the running to sign Bernardo Silva, who has left Manchester City, but they are aware that the Portugal international’s preference is to join Barcelona.
Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes is also on Atletico’s midfield shortlist.
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