Arsenal have been heavily linked with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez, and the Spanish club have identified a replacement should the Argentine leave Spain this summer. Atletico Madrid have pinpointed Victor Osimhen as the man they want if Alvarez departs.
The Argentine has been a huge success in the Spanish capital since signing from Manchester City. He remains the leading light in Diego Simeone's side, and his performances have attracted interest from some of Europe's heavyweights, including Arsenal and Barcelona.
Atletico are regulars in the Champions League and have not been forced into selling their top players for years, but Alvarez could push for a move elsewhere if his head is turned. According to AS, the Madrid side are planning for the possibility of his exit and will turn their attention to Galatasaray's Osimhen.
Atletico paid £81.5 million to sign Alvarez but would be able to demand more than that if they cash in on the 26-year-old, who has scored 49 times for the club. Galatasaray would want £64 million before considering selling Osimhen, who has been a huge hit in Turkey since leaving Napoli two years ago.
It has been reported that Alvarez has turned down the offer of an improved deal from Atletico, and Simeone will not convince him to stay against his will, wanting players committed to the cause. "It's not a question for me, it's a question for Julian," Simeone said recently. "He's old enough to know what he's going to do, and I'm sure he'll have his decision made."
Barcelona are thought to be Alvarez's preferred destination despite Arsenal also being keen. The Catalans have decided to let Robert Lewandowski depart, leaving a void in their attack that needs filling. Arsenal would be able to match Barcelona financially, and it may come down to where Alvarez wants to end up. South American players have long had a desire to play for one of Spain's two giants.
The Gunners spent more than £60 million to bring in Viktor Gyokeres 12 months ago, but despite breaking the 20-goal barrier in his debut season, doubts remain over whether the Swede is their long-term solution. He was overlooked for crucial games, including the Champions League final. Mikel Arteta's side have been accused of lacking quality in the final third, especially compared to other elite sides in Europe, and this summer could see them address that issue.
