Arsenal have received encouragement in their pursuit of Julian Alvarez after Andrea Berta held direct talks with the Atletico Madrid forward.
TEAMtalk reports that Atletico would be prepared to sanction a move to Arsenal if the Argentina international decides to leave Spain.
The Gunners have remained in regular contact with Álvarez’s representatives throughout the summer, while Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring his situation.
However, Barcelona remain the 26-year-old’s preferred destination and have an offer worth just over €100m on the table.
Arsenal still need Álvarez to change his mind
TEAMtalk reports that Berta has spoken directly with Álvarez, who would be open to returning to the Premier League if his proposed Barcelona move collapses.
Atletico are reluctant to strengthen either Barcelona or Real Madrid and would prefer to negotiate with Arsenal.
That gives the Gunners a clear route to an agreement at club level. Convincing the player remains the larger obstacle.
ReadArsenal reported on Sunday that Arsenal are pushing to complete an Álvarez deal before pre-season, although no fee has yet been agreed.
Arsenal are understood to value the forward below Atletico’s £100m-plus asking price. Álvarez also remains contracted to the Spanish club until 2030, giving them a strong negotiating position.
Mikel Arteta’s interest is easy to understand. Álvarez can lead the attack, operate behind another striker and contribute from wider areas.
He also has Premier League experience from his time with Manchester City and would add another proven goalscorer to Arsenal’s title-winning squad.
The latest update gives Arsenal encouragement rather than a transfer breakthrough. Atletico are willing to deal, but Álvarez must first abandon his preference for Barcelona.
