Álvarez stays at Atlético as Arsenal move fails

Abdullateef Fowewe

Argentina forward Julián Álvarez will remain at Atlético Madrid after the summer transfer window, with late interest from Arsenal failing to change his decision, according to transfer journalist Matteo Moretto.

Álvarez is understood to have informed Atlético that he will not leave the club this summer, rejecting possible Premier League opportunities as his preferred destination was Barcelona.

Arsenal reportedly made enquiries until the final stages of the window, but the former Manchester City striker was only open to a move to the Catalan giants.

Barcelona, however, could not meet Atlético Madrid’s financial demands for the 26-year-old, forcing them to abandon plans for an immediate transfer.

The Spanish champions are expected to return for Álvarez in a future transfer window, while Atlético will retain one of their key attacking options for the season.