Shearer sees 'small window' for Arsenal to snatch Alvarez as Atletico block Barcelona move

Alan Shearer has identified a narrow transfer opportunity for Arsenal to sign Julian Alvarez, with Atletico Madrid’s refusal to sell the Argentine to Barcelona potentially opening the door for the Gunners ahead of the summer window deadline.

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, the Premier League’s all-time record scorer said: “We’ve heard of a lot of pushing from Barcelona and the reluctance from Atletico. It seems like their thinking might be, ‘if we have to sell, we’re not selling to you.’ There’s just maybe a small opportunity or a small window there for Arsenal to nab him, you would think. And if they do it’s done by the way [the Premier League title race].”

Co-host Micah Richards backed the idea, arguing Alvarez should be Arsenal’s priority signing. “I would actually go for a striker if I was Arsenal and we’ve all seen the situation with Alvarez at Atletico,” Richards said. “He was booed by his own fans the other night and there are reports he wants to go to Barcelona. But are Atletico going to sell him to Barca? It might be one for Arsenal to just sneak in there and offer a bid. He’s clearly not happy… If Arsenal had Alvarez he would take them to the next level.”

The 26-year-old’s situation at Atletico has deteriorated sharply. He returned from the Club World Cup last weekend and was subjected to fierce jeering from the home support before being ushered away by club officials while his teammates acknowledged the crowd. Atletico drew 2-2 with Villarreal in that fixture. Alvarez then missed training on Wednesday through illness, according to Spanish outlet Marca.

The asking price remains a significant obstacle. Atletico are demanding upwards of £100m, with The Athletic reporting the club would entertain offers of €150m — approximately £128m — for the former Manchester City forward.

Barcelona remains Alvarez’s preferred destination, but their financial constraints make a deal difficult, leaving Arsenal as the more credible suitor if Atletico decide to cash in before the window closes.