Real Madrid have made the first move to sign Julian Alvarez, triggering a high-stakes transfer battle for the Atletico Madrid striker that also involves Arsenal and Barcelona.
The shock bid emerged on Tuesday, with the Spanish giants launching an opening gambit for the Argentina international, according to the Mirror Football and Evening Standard. Alvarez, who has been a key figure for Atletico since his move from Manchester City, is now at the centre of a three-way tug-of-war between Europe’s elite.
“Real Madrid make first bid for Julian Alvarez, with Arsenal and Barcelona also interested in the Atletico Madrid striker.”
Arsenal, fresh from winning the Premier League title, have been handed a major update in their pursuit of the 26-year-old. The Gunners are known admirers and had been weighing up an enquiry, but Real Madrid’s aggressive approach has forced them to accelerate their plans. Barcelona, too, are keen, though their financial constraints may limit their ability to compete with Madrid’s resources.
The developments come amid a flurry of activity in the summer transfer window. Tottenham captain Cristian Romero is reportedly being targeted by Manchester United, while Bayern Munich are in the race to sign Marcus Rashford, whose dream return to Barcelona appears unlikely as the Catalan club focus on Alvarez. Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella is also on Atletico’s radar, with Barcelona also interested.
Elsewhere, Raul Jimenez has agreed a two-year deal with an option for a further 12 months to return to Wolves, where he became a cult hero during his first spell. The 35-year-old Mexico international, a free agent after leaving Fulham, has undergone a medical in Mexico and is expected to sign until 2028 as Wolves prepare for the Championship.
Crystal Palace have set a £100million price tag on midfielder Adam Wharton, attracting interest from Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United, according to journalist Alan Nixon. Wharton has impressed over two-and-a-half years in the Premier League.
But it is the Alvarez saga that dominates the window. With Real Madrid’s first bid now on the table, the question is whether Arsenal or Barcelona can respond — or if the striker will remain in the Spanish capital, just across the city.