At a Glance:
- Arsenal eyeing Julian Alvarez.
- Why the Gunners should not sign him.
- How Alvarez views a potential move to Arsenal.
Considering the flailing state of Arsenal’s attack, a majority of the Emirates faithful would probably welcome the arrival of a player of Julian Alvarez’s ilk with open arms.
Arsenal have admired Alvarez for months and based on Kai Havertz’s poor injury record as well as Viktor Gyokeres’ struggles, the Argentine would perhaps be an obvious upgrade on the Gunners pair.
However, it is important to note that elite sides sign the best-possible players rather than simply signing improvements on their upgradeable current options.
There are plenty of reasons why despite Alvarez’s undeniable class, Arsenal should steer clear of signing him.
Arsenal should avoid Julian Alvarez transfer
Since Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang, the North Londoners have missed the presence of a world-class goalscorer up front. However, Alvarez is yet to cement his status as one since joining Atletico Madrid.
In his two seasons in the Spanish capital, the World Cup winner is yet to score 20 league goals.
| Seasons | Starts | La Liga goals |
| 2024/2025 | 30 | 17 |
| 2025/2026 | 22 | 8 |
Arsenal target Victor Osimhen, on the other hand, bagged 26 goals in the Turkish Super Lig last season and even during Napoli’s legendary Scuduetto-winning campaign in 2023. Furthermore, whether it is as Atletico Madrid or even at Manchester City, Alvarez played his best football in a front two.
In Madrid, the Argentine thrives playing alongside either Antoine Griezmann or Alexander Sorloth while at City, he excelled as Erling Haaland’s partner-in-crime.
While Havertz is better suited than Gyokeres to a front two after having succeeded playing as a part of one at Bayer Leverkusen in particular, Mikel Arteta may not fancy such a system as it is very gung-ho.
Furthermore, as good as Alvarez’s all-round game is, there are glaring issues that stand out.
- Struggles in battling centre-backs.
- Uncomfortable in possession under pressure.
- Gets isolated when leading the line.
The treble-winner is a top player but there are far too many red flags in his game and track record for Arsenal to ignore.
Julian Alvarez’s stance on Arsenal move
With Arsenal targeting Eli Junior Kroupi and Osimhen, it is clear as day that they would like to sign a new striker.
However, Alvarez may reject Arsenal due to a few reasons, which is probably also why the club should focus on their other transfer targets.
- Does not fancy a return to Premier League after playing due to Manchester City links.
- Barcelona move appeals to Alvarez the most.
- PSG viewed as “attractive prospect” but Ligue 1 puts him off.
Mikel Arteta would ultimately not want to coach any player who does not dream to play for Arsenal.
If the Gunners find a striker who aspires to don the famous red and white strip while fitting their needs, they should sign said number nine instead.
