Manchester United have reportedly been in direct contact with the agent of Julian Alvarez. The transfer saga surrounding the Atletico Madrid star has intensified following his bombshell exit claim, a furious statement aimed at Barcelona, and two huge bids being rejected.
Real Madrid and Barcelona Bids Rejected
Those two offers both came from Atletico's La Liga rivals, with Real Madrid publicly declaring their €150million (£129m) bid was turned down, while Barcelona also saw a triple-figure proposal rebuffed. In an attempt to force through a switch, Alvarez made a significant admission while at the World Cup with Argentina.
Speaking to ESPN, he said: "The best thing for me is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream. I don't want to hide or act like I don't want to be clear. I try to be honest. I spoke to Atletico people and I think the best for everyone involved is for me to leave."
Arsenal and United Enter the Race
The latest reports from Spain indicate that Diego Simeone's side have no intention of negotiating with Barcelona for Alvarez. That appeared to put Arsenal in the driving seat for his signature, but now United have joined the race. According to Diario AS journalist Marcos Duran, United have spoken with Alvarez's agent upon seeing the situation of the 26-year-old.
He has added that United have money to spend now they're back in the Champions League, with how well he performed at bitter rivals Manchester City seemingly on their mind. The Argentine scored 36 goals in 103 appearances at Etihad Stadium, but often played a secondary role to Erling Haaland. He has since become Atletico's talisman, which explains the significant interest in his services.
United's Transfer Priorities
Having strengthened significantly in attack last summer, midfield is the priority for Michael Carrick and Co. ahead of the 2026/27 season. A deal has already been agreed for Ederson to join from Atalanta, while West Ham's Mateus Fernandes is another concrete target.
Tottenham have since joined the race for his signature and United are facing a serious challenge from Roberto De Zerbi's side, who appear more likely to meet the Hammers' asking price and the wage demands of Fernandes. Arsenal have also been linked to the Portuguese midfielder but now appear more focused on Lille's Ayyoub Bouaddi and Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes. His club team-mate Sandro Tonali is also of interest to both north London clubs, with the Italian preferring the Gunners but open to a Tottenham Hotspur Stadium switch.
