Arsenal remain interested in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez despite the Argentina international's stated preference to join Barcelona, according to reporting from Sky in Italy's Luca Bendoni.

Initial discussions between the two clubs have taken place at ownership level, with communication lines still open. Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta previously held the same role at Atletico before joining the Emirates last year, giving him a natural connection with his former employers.

The gap between Arsenal and Atletico

Atletico Madrid have no desire to sell Alvarez, and a substantial difference in club valuations remains a major obstacle. The 25-year-old's preference is understood to be a move to Barcelona, with sources indicating his family are keen to remain in Spain — a hurdle Arsenal, along with Paris Saint-Germain, would need to clear to win the race for his signature.

Privately, Atletico are thought to be more receptive to selling Alvarez to Arsenal or Paris Saint-Germain — but only if Alvarez himself pushes to leave the Metropolitano for any club, not just Barcelona.

Barcelona's pursuit heats up

Barcelona president Joan Laporta confirmed the club's current offer of just over £100 million remains on the table and that a revised bid of more than £110 million (€130 million) plus bonuses could follow the World Cup. However, sources in Spain suggest any improved offer would still be rejected, given the deeply fractured relationship between Atletico and Barcelona — a feud that has spilled onto social media in recent weeks.

Atletico CEO Miguel Gil Marin has accused Barcelona of