Arsenal race to sign Alvarez as City open talks for Fernandez on deadline day

Transfer deadline day has thrown up two of the summer’s biggest unresolved sagas: Arsenal’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez from Atlético Madrid and Manchester City’s attempt to prise Enzo Fernandez from Chelsea before the 11pm deadline.

Arsenal vs the clock for Alvarez

Arsenal have chased Alvarez throughout the window and have already sold Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus to create room for the 26-year-old Argentina forward. Despite those moves, the Premier League champions are yet to submit a formal offer to Atlético, who are holding firm on a €150m asking price. Alvarez himself has reportedly prioritised a move to Barcelona, though Atlético have made clear they will not sell him to their La Liga rivals.

Mikel Arteta is said to have been in direct contact with Alvarez in recent days and is understood to be aware that Barcelona remains the player’s first choice. With time running short, Arsenal have begun exploring alternatives, with Lyon winger Malick Fofana — a target they have tracked for over a year — emerging as a late option. Atlético, meanwhile, are close to signing Juventus forward Jonathan David on loan but are still reluctant to let Alvarez leave before the window closes.

City open talks for Fernandez

Manchester City made a breakthrough on Sunday evening in their bid to sign Enzo Fernandez, but Chelsea are demanding in excess of £120m for the midfielder. Fernandez has been left out of Chelsea’s last two matchday squads, and head coach Xabi Alonso has indicated the club will not sanction a sale without securing a suitable replacement first.

Chelsea have identified Monaco’s Lamine Camara, Roma’s Manu Koné and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott as potential arrivals to fill the void. Enzo Maresca is keen to be reunited with Fernandez, who he previously worked with, adding further impetus to City’s pursuit. Whether the deal is completed will likely hinge on Chelsea’s ability to move quickly on a replacement before the deadline.

Elsewhere in the window

Manchester United remain without a left-back as the window enters its final hours. Liverpool’s business appears largely concluded after signing Bradley Barcola and turning down Manchester City’s approach for Cody Gakpo. City have separately agreed a £60m deal with Everton to sign Iliman Ndiaye, a move that could affect Everton’s own pursuit of Richarlison. Tottenham are also still seeking a new forward before the window shuts.