Arsenal: Fresh Julian Alvarez transfer twist confirmed after Mikel Arteta talks

Summer long transfer saga is nearing a conclusion

While Alvarez missed Atletico’s 3-1 win over Sevilla, he trained alone at the club’s facilities and is expected to rejoin the group on Sunday.

Atletico sporting director Matheu Alemany said: “He trained yesterday, and we hope he recovers quickly and is ready for the upcoming La Liga match.”

Alemany added: “We have been very clear and firm on this matter. The board issued a statement about it, and the chief executive confirmed it clearly and firmly. I refer you to that. Why should I say more?”

However, speaking on Saturday morning, The Athletic’s David Ornstein confirmed Alvarez has told Mikel Arteta that he does not want to return to England.

“Atletico Madrid would do a deal with Arsenal. Arsenal are prepared to reach a club-to-club agreement, but they would want the player to want to join them.”

“Alvarez has shown no indication of wanting to join at this point. He’s spoken to Mikel Arteta and said that he doesn’t want to come.

“That could change, these situations are always movable, so I don’t want to say it won’t happen, but right now, it’s not developing.”