Arsenal’s reported interest in Julián Álvarez has been dismissed by Steve McManaman, who believes the Atlético Madrid forward was never seriously considering a move to north London.
The Argentina international was linked with Mikel Arteta’s side during the summer, as Arsenal explored attacking reinforcements after a transfer window in which Christos Tzolis was their only new option for the front three.
Arsenal’s Julián Álvarez links questioned
McManaman, speaking during TNT Sports’ Champions League coverage, argued that Álvarez’s preference was always to join Barcelona rather than Arsenal.
“He was never going to go, as if he wants to go to Arsenal,” McManaman said. “He wanted to go to Barcelona; he came out and said that, but they’re not going to strengthen a rival.”
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder also pointed to Atlético’s position and the financial commitment involved in signing the 26-year-old.
“Atlético Madrid paid £82million to Manchester City, he’s still got four years left on his contract,” he added. “Let’s be honest, he’s got a cheek saying I want to leave and go to Barcelona when they are, apart from Real Madrid, your closest rivals.”
Atlético chief executive Miguel Ángel Gil Marín repeatedly insisted during the summer that Álvarez was not for sale, while the Spanish club publicly ruled out negotiating with Barcelona. The club did, however, indicate that discussions with other potential destinations could be considered if the player felt his position at Atlético had become untenable.
Reports in Spain subsequently suggested that Arsenal remained a possible alternative, despite Álvarez’s preference for Barcelona. The forward ultimately stayed at Atlético after the transfer window closed.
Steven Gerrard, who was alongside McManaman in the TNT Sports studio, made clear that Arsenal’s failure to complete a deal was welcome news from his perspective.
“I’m just glad he didn’t go to Arsenal, I’ll just leave that one there!” Gerrard said.
The former Liverpool captain remains a keen admirer of Álvarez, praising his versatility and attacking intelligence.
“He’s a top player, very exciting, very clever and it’s no shock that he’s wanted around the world,” Gerrard added. “He’s a goalscorer, he’s inventive; I love watching him.”
Álvarez has continued to feature for Atlético this season after the unresolved transfer saga, with Diego Simeone relying on the forward as the club look to challenge at the top end of Spanish and European football.
