Alvarez rules out Arsenal move as Gunners eye PSG teenager Mbemba

Julian Alvarez has ruled out joining Arsenal this summer, according to Spanish radio outlet Cadena SER, dealing a blow to the Premier League champions as they look to strengthen following their first league title in 22 years.

The 26-year-old Argentina international, who joined Atlético Madrid from Manchester City in 2024, has been the subject of transfer speculation for several months. Cadena SER reports that Alvarez favours a move to Barcelona, though negotiations between the two clubs are currently at a standstill. Despite being identified as the “only realistic option” for Alvarez, Arsenal are not being considered by the forward, who has no desire to move to London — making it increasingly likely he remains at Atlético into next season. Spanish publication Sport has also reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

On a separate front, Arsenal are reportedly pursuing 18-year-old PSG defender Emmanuel Mbemba, according to French newspaper Le Parisien. The teenager is approaching the end of his youth contract at the Parc des Princes, and while PSG have offered him his first professional deal, he has attracted interest from multiple clubs. Le Parisien claims Arsenal have “presented their project” to Mbemba after scouting him on several occasions this season, with Ligue 1 side Paris FC also in the running.

However, the pursuit may not be straightforward. Le Parisien notes that Mbemba could face difficulties obtaining a work permit, which would prevent him from immediately joining Mikel Arteta’s squad and may give Paris FC an advantage in the race for the France Under-18 international.

Arsenal’s summer business comes off the back of a historic Premier League title win and a Champions League final defeat to PSG — a result that has sharpened the club’s ambition to close the gap on Europe’s elite. Arteta is expected to target reinforcements across multiple positions as the Gunners prepare for their first season competing as English champions.