Why Julian Alvarez is missing from Atletico Madrid training amid Arsenal transfer rumours

Julian Alvarez was absent from Atletico Madrid training on Wednesday as speculation grows surrounding his future.

The forward has expressed his desire to leave the Spanish giants this summer despite having four years remaining on his contract.

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Alvarez is desperate to secure a switch to Barcelona, whilst Real Madrid have also had a bid rejected this summer.

Although a move to Barca now appears unlikely, Arsenal could still complete the signing of the 26-year-old.

The Gunners are exploring a deal for Alvarez as revealed by talkSPORT at the weekend.

European football journalist Andy Brassell previously told talkSPORT Arsenal have a clear run at the signing with Barca out of the race.

It would take a bid matching Atletico’s £150million asking price to make it happen, though.

However, Arsenal’s interest is not the reason for his failure to train with his team-mates on Wednesday.

Why is Alvarez missing Atletico training?

According to Marca, Alvarez was absent from Atletico’s latest training session due to illness.

Diego Simeone’s players returned to training for the first time since their draw with Villarreal on Sunday.

It comes ahead of a trip to face Sevilla in LaLiga this coming weekend.

Alvarez had made a 24-minute cameo off the bench as his side were held at home.

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The Argentina international had been left out of the squad for the season opener against Malaga.

Although Simeone later revealed the club have no plans to sell his future remains uncertain.

Alvarez’s introduction against Villarreal was met with boos and jeers from the home supporters.

Atletico fans then sent him down the tunnel at full-time as they made their feelings known over his desire to leave the club.

His change of heart comes just two years on from signing a six-year deal in 2024.

Alvarez was signed from Manchester City for £81m, the second-most expensive signing in the club’s history.

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He has since scored 49 goals in 107 appearances across all competitions for Atletico.

However, a move to Arsenal could still go through before Tuesday’s 11pm transfer deadline for Premier League clubs.