Arsenal pushing for Julian Alvarez transfer with Atletico Madrid star set for late decision

Arsenal are still actively exploring a move for Julian Alvarez before the transfer window closes, talkSPORT understands.

Sporting director Andrea Berta remains in talks with Alvarez and the Gunners have told Atletico Madrid they are ready to do business.

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Atleti have repeatedly insisted that the Argentina forward is not for sale this summer and their preference is to keep him, but the player wants to leave.

Alvarez was left out of Diego Simeone’s squad for the 2-0 victory over Malaga in LaLiga on Wednesday.

talkSPORT understands the former Manchester City star is yet to give the green light over a return to England.

Alvarez is keen to join Barcelona, but Atletico are reluctant to do business with their Spanish rivals, having already rejected an £86million bid and pointed towards his £432m release clause.

They were also left fuming by what appeared to be an insincere £129m bid from Real Madrid earlier this summer.

Atletico would much rather sell outside LaLiga if they decide to sanction a sale.

talkSPORT previously reported Arsenal have explored the idea of offering Viktor Gyokeres as a makeweight to sweeten the deal.

It means the decision rests with Alvarez – who has been left disappointed by Atleti’s stance throughout the summer.

Tzolis shines on Arsenal debut

Arsenal showed their strength by cruising to a 3-0 win over Coventry City on the opening night of the Premier League.

Christos Tzolis impressed following a £34m move to the reigning champions earlier in the summer.

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He arrived days after Leandro Trossard completed a move to Turkish giants Besiktas.

Mikel Arteta’s side missed out on Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr but remain overwhelming title favourites this season.

Left-winger Gabriel Martinelli, meanwhile, is linked with a move away from the Emirates before the window closes on September 1, having rejected a move to Galatasaray.

He was not named in the squad to face Coventry on Friday amid the links with an exit.

Before kick-off, Arsenal unveiled the £55m signing of Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa.

However, they were without fellow summer arrival Bruno Guimaraes, who is set for a spell on the sidelines with an injury.