UMVA has learned that a major transfer saga is unfolding, with Julian Alvarez expressing his desire to leave Atletico Madrid this summer.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Atletico are refusing to negotiate a deal with Barcelona, instead attempting to work out a deal with Arsenal for Alvarez. The proposed deal would see Alvarez join Mikel Arteta's side in exchange for €60m (£51.7m) plus Viktor Gyokeres.
Atletico view Gyokeres as a 'pure and simple centre-forward' who would be a better fit for their team, while the Sweden international's arrival would also pave the way for Alexander Sorloth's exit. Sorloth is wanted by several top clubs, including Juventus and Napoli.
Gyokeres has been impressive since joining Arsenal in a £64m deal from Sporting CP last summer, scoring 21 goals in his first season with Arteta's side as they won the Premier League and reached the Champions League final.
Former footballer Michael Owen recently claimed that Arsenal would not be entirely happy with Gyokeres' contribution and backed the Gunners to sign a world-class striker this summer. Owen believes Arsenal would 'move heaven and earth' to sign a top player if they became available.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that the transfer dynamics are complex, with clubs needing to be careful not to disrupt their team's balance while trying to strengthen their squads. The risk of overspending and ruining what they have is a delicate management challenge.
