Julián Álvarez has missed Atlético Madrid training for a second consecutive day as uncertainty over his future intensifies. With Barcelona’s route seemingly blocked and Arsenal still interested, could the Premier League become his next destination?
By Abiodun Adewale Adeniyi | Founder & Editor, Beyond the Final Whistle
August 27, 2026 | Premier League | Transfer News | La Liga
The Julián Álvarez Arsenal transfer story has entered another decisive stage just days before the summer window closes.
Álvarez missed Atlético Madrid training for the second consecutive day on Thursday, with reports in Spain saying the Argentine forward remains unwell after also sitting out Wednesday’s session.
That distinction matters.
There is currently no reliable evidence that Álvarez is refusing to train in an attempt to force a transfer. Atlético’s explanation is illness, and reports say the striker has not yet recovered sufficiently to return to first-team training. (Yahoo Sports)
But the timing inevitably puts even more attention on a transfer saga involving Atlético, Barcelona and Arsenal.
And with the September 1 deadline approaching, Arsenal may suddenly have an opportunity.
Why Álvarez’s Situation Has Become So Complicated
Álvarez’s future has been one of the biggest stories of the final weeks of the transfer window.
Barcelona have made no secret of their admiration for the Argentina international.
President Joan Laporta publicly confirmed that Barcelona remain interested and that their offer is still on the table. However, Atlético’s position toward selling their star forward to a direct Spanish rival has become increasingly hostile.
Atlético CEO Miguel Ángel Gil Marín has insisted that the club will not sell Álvarez to Barcelona, describing the possibility as effectively zero. (Reuters)
That is where Arsenal enter the picture.
If Atlético refuse to strengthen Barcelona but are prepared to consider approaches from outside Spain, the Premier League could offer a solution.
And Arsenal are one of the clubs with the ambition and financial strength to make such a move possible.
Arsenal’s Opportunity Is Becoming Clearer
Arsenal’s interest in Álvarez isn’t new.
We previously examined the possibility in Arsenal and Julián Álvarez: The Deadline-Week Transfer That Could Change the Premier League Title Race.
The attraction is easy to understand.
Álvarez can play through the middle, operate behind another striker and drift into wider attacking areas.
He also knows the Premier League.
Having previously played for Manchester City, the Argentine would not need the same adaptation period as a forward arriving in England for the first time.
For Mikel Arteta, that versatility could be enormously valuable.
Arsenal already possess a squad capable of challenging for major trophies. Adding a forward with Álvarez’s movement, technical quality and experience could provide another dimension.
The question is whether Arsenal can persuade the player himself.
Barcelona Remain Álvarez’s Preferred Route
This is the biggest obstacle.
Barcelona’s interest remains alive, and Álvarez has been strongly associated with a move to the Catalan club.
But wanting a transfer and being able to complete one are two very different things.
Atlético’s refusal to sell to Barcelona could force Álvarez to reconsider his available options before the window closes.
Reuters reports that Atlético insist they will not allow him to join Barcelona even after Laporta reiterated the Spanish champions’ interest.
Arsenal therefore don’t necessarily need Álvarez to have originally preferred North London.
They need to convince him that Arsenal represents the best realistic alternative.
Champions League football, a title-challenging squad and a major role in Arteta’s attack would provide a compelling argument.
The Atlético Relationship Is Under Pressure
There is another element Arsenal will be watching carefully.
Álvarez received a difficult reception from sections of the Atlético support during the recent draw against Villarreal, with supporters expressing their frustration over the uncertainty surrounding his future.
Then came two consecutive absences from training.
Again, those absences should not be portrayed as a transfer protest. Atlético’s stated reason is illness. Spanish reports say his condition could also put his participation against Sevilla this weekend in doubt.
Nevertheless, the overall situation is clearly uncomfortable.
There are now only days remaining for Atlético, Álvarez and the interested clubs to find a solution.
Would Álvarez Change the Premier League Title Race?
Potentially, yes.
Arsenal are already among the strongest teams in England, and their title ambitions have been central to our analysis in Can Arsenal Defend Their Premier League Title?.
Álvarez would give Arteta another proven goalscorer with experience of winning major trophies.
More importantly, he could give Arsenal tactical flexibility.
Against teams defending deep, Álvarez can operate between the lines and combine around the penalty area.
Against stronger opposition, his movement and pressing could make him extremely useful during transitions.
And across a season involving the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups, attacking depth becomes essential.
Arsenal wouldn’t simply be signing another striker.
They would be adding a player capable of changing the structure of their attack.
Arsenal Must Avoid Deadline-Week Panic
There is still an important warning.
Arsenal shouldn’t allow the drama surrounding Álvarez to force them into an irresponsible deal.
Atlético know they possess a valuable player under a long-term contract, meaning Arsenal’s negotiating position is hardly straightforward.
The Gunners must decide what Álvarez is genuinely worth to Arteta’s project rather than simply paying whatever is required because the deadline is approaching.
Supporters can follow official club developments through Arsenal and Atlético Madrid.
Until either club confirms an agreement, this remains a developing transfer story rather than a completed deal.
Final Verdict: Arsenal Have an Opening — Not Yet a Deal
Álvarez missing Atlético training for two consecutive days will inevitably intensify speculation.
But his absence itself is not evidence that an Arsenal transfer is imminent.
The more important development is Atlético’s position on Barcelona.
If the Spanish club genuinely refuses to sell Álvarez to their domestic rival, Arsenal could become one of the most realistic alternatives available before the window closes.
Now Arteta and Arsenal must answer two questions.
How badly do they want Julián Álvarez?
And perhaps more importantly:
Can they convince Álvarez that North London should be his next destination?
With September 1 approaching, we may not have to wait long for the answer.
What Do You Think?
Should Arsenal make a major late push to sign Julián Álvarez?
And would Álvarez make Arsenal favourites for the Premier League title?
Share your opinion in the comments below.
