Arsenal’s interest in Julian Alvarez is well-documented and long-standing, with the player having keen admirers at the club.
And now, Diego Simeone has sent a firm message to his potential suitors, with Barcelona’s interest playing out rather publicly.
Alvarez is no stranger to the Premier League due to his previous exploits with Manchester City.
He is currently at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Argentina and his future is unlikely to be settled before the tournament concludes.
However, Simeone’s comments should come as a firm warning to Arsenal and Barcelona as Atletico Madrid are seemingly unwilling to sell him this summer.
Alvarez hands off warning for Arsenal
Barcelona’s interest has played out publicly, while Real Madrid made a bid for him before Florentino Perez was re-elected as their president.
And now, Simeone has confirmed that Atletico Madrid intend to keep Alvarez this summer, adding that the player has behaved impeccably despite the speculation surrounding his future.
“He’s the player around whom, as a club and as a team, we plan to build our game,” said Simeone via ESPN.
“That’s what we’ve been doing since he arrived, and that’s still our way of thinking.
“His future, above all, is tomorrow’s match. The best thing that can happen to him is to focus on that and not think about all these stories that have come out, so they don’t create confusion for him.
“Things will be resolved, as they always have been in life. He’s an extraordinary player, the best footballer we have at Atlético since he arrived. He’s unquestionably among the five best players in the world.
“We’re very happy with his work. I can’t say anything more than what I’ve already told you because he’s behaved impeccably as a person.
“He’s a young man who has always worked in the best possible way for the good of the team. Hopefully, in this important stage with the national team, he can show everything he’s capable of.”
What did Alvarez say about his future?
To put it bluntly, Arsenal have been linked with the player, but his clear preference seems to be to move to Barcelona if a transfer materialises this summer.
Speaking earlier this week, Alvarez confirmed his desire to move on, which is undoubtedly a massive blow for Atletico.
“I spoke with people at the club, with those I had to speak with and the best thing for everyone is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream,” Alvarez said via Sky Sports.
“It’s not the time to talk about this, but I also can’t hide it. I try to be an honest person.”
Judging by his comments, he surely prefers a move to Barcelona, so Arsenal are better off looking elsewhere.
