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Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone has addressed reports linking Julián Álvarez with a summer move to Arsenal, acknowledging that the Gunners are among the elite clubs tracking the Argentine striker.
Speaking ahead of the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against the Premier League leaders, Simeone admitted it is “normal” for his star striker to be targeted by Europe’s top teams.
Simeone confirms that Álvarez is a wanted man
Speaking ahead of the first leg at the Metropolitano, Simeone was asked directly about reports that Arsenal are considering a summer swoop for Alvarez.
The forward, who joined Atlético from Manchester City in 2024, has become one of the great promises of European football after scoring 48 goals in 104 games for the Spanish team. Simeone openly admitted that the caliber of the player makes him the target of the most important clubs in the world.
“I guess it’s normal. He’s an extraordinary player,” Simeone told reporters. “There is interest from Arsenal, Paris St Germain, Barcelona and other teams. But it is nothing that worries us.”
Manage an asset of £87 million
Arsenal reportedly view Alvarez as the clinical finisher needed to make them a dominant force on the domestic and European stages.
However, Atletico have previously indicated they have no desire to sell, with the Spanish side reportedly valuing the player at approximately £87m.
Furthermore, it is also reported that Álvarez prefers to remain in Spain, either at Atlético or a move to another La Liga club, rather than returning to England; Barcelona are reportedly the Spanish team most interested in his services.
Focus on European glory
As transfer talk dominated the headlines, Simeone took steps to refocus his team on the chase for the Champions League trophy.
Having reached the finals in 2014 and 2016, the Argentine coach is eager to finally claim the title that narrowly eluded him.
However, he warned that past anguish does not entitle the club to success in the future.
“No one owes us anything; we have to work hard and hope that luck is on our side,” he added.
“There is no pressure, there is responsibility. The excitement of being close to a big goal, one that the club has never achieved. We have to prepare to play; in the end, the players decide based on their experience, personality and work ethic. We want to play the game we imagine and take it to a place where we can hurt them.
“It is extraordinary to play another semi-final. After nine years, the fourth time in 14. It is wonderful. Incredible. That faith, that enthusiasm, that contagious energy of the fans is wonderful. We face a tough opponent who is good at set pieces, and we go there with all our hopes.”
Last preparations at the Metropolitano
Álvarez is expected to feature in the clash despite missing Atlético’s last two domestic matches with a minor injury. His presence will be vital to Simeone’s attacking plan against an Arsenal defense that has been consistently solid in England this season.
