"title": "Arsenal still interested in Alvarez as Tzolis move explored", "content": "
Arsenal remain firmly in the hunt for Julian Alvarez, with the Atletico Madrid striker still a primary summer target — even though the player's personal preference is a switch to Barcelona. Simultaneously, the Gunners are laying groundwork to sign Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis as a direct successor to the departing Leandro Trossard.
According to Sky Sports, initial discussions over Alvarez have taken place at ownership level, with communication lines kept open by the presence of former Atletico Madrid sporting director Andrea Berta, now in the same role at the Emirates. The Argentine forward, currently preparing for a World Cup semi-final against England, is due to go on holiday once Argentina’s campaign ends before returning for pre-season talks with Atletico’s hierarchy — a period that will almost certainly define his future.
“I spoke with Gil Marin. He told me they were not planning to let him go, but the offer is firm and we stand by it,” Barcelona president Joan Laporta said. “It remains on the table and the deal could still go through, but the offer is not open-ended. Atletico said no because they didn’t have a replacement. If they get one, we will see.”
Alvarez: a transfer triangle with high barriers
Barcelona have not withdrawn from the race. Their current bid of just over £100m remains on the table, and sources in Spain indicate that figure could rise to more than £110m (€130m) plus bonuses after the World Cup. However, the public spat between the two Spanish clubs — including accusations from Atletico CEO Miguel Gil Marin that Barcelona “disrespected” them — has left the relationship at an all-time low. Atletico are almost certain to refuse to sell to their domestic rivals, a stance privately understood to be less rigid when it comes to Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain, should Alvarez formally demand an exit.
Yet the biggest obstacle remains personal, not institutional. Sky Sports News has reported that it is Alvarez's dream to sign for Barcelona, and his family wishes to continue living in Spain. That deep-rooted preference — and Barcelona’s continued pursuit — means Arsenal must offer something truly compelling, whether in wages, sporting project, or a clear route to becoming the team’s focal point. Real Madrid’s rejected £130m (€150m) bid last month underscored how determined Atletico are to hold firm, and how expensive any deal would be.
Arsenal’s Tzolis play and the Trossard succession
While the Alvarez situation unfolds, Arsenal are advancing plans for a more attainable reinforcement. Christos Tzolis of Club Brugge has emerged as a primary candidate to fill the void left by Leandro Trossard, who is joining Besiktas in a deal worth £17m. One source told Sky Sports News that Tzolis is high on the list of Trossard replacements, and long-standing admiration for the Greek winger exists within the club.
The conditions of a deal have been explored, but no formal club-to-club contact has yet been made. Club Brugge would demand around £34m, a