Atletico Madrid have urged Arsenal transfer target Julian Alvarez to make a decision on his future before the start of the new La Liga campaign. It is understood the Gunners have registered their interest in the World Cup winner ahead of the summer transfer window.
Alvarez's Uncertain Future
Alvarez, 26, has also been linked with moves to Chelsea, Barcelona, and this weekend's Champions League final opponents Paris Saint-Germain. His long-term prospects at the Wanda Metropolitano appear uncertain, with Atletico boss Diego Simeone openly admitting he believes the Argentine has already made up his mind.
Furthermore, it has been claimed Atletico have made it clear to Alvarez they have no desire to be left in transfer limbo on 14th or 15th August, when the new La Liga season kicks off. This date effectively serves as a hard deadline for Arsenal to firm up their pursuit of the former Manchester City forward.
Ultimatum from Atletico
Speaking on Radio Marca, Spanish journalist Roberto Gomez claimed the Spanish giants have already delivered a stark warning to Alvarez and his camp. Gomez said: "Atletico de Madrid has issued an ultimatum to Julian Alvarez."
In a message that appears to be directed just as much at Arsenal as at the striker himself, Gomez added: "If you have an offer, make it now. Don't wait here until August 14th or 15th at midnight."
Speaking to Movistar, Simeone gave a characteristically blunt response when quizzed about Alvarez's future. The Argentine said: "It's not a question for me, it's a question for Julian. He's old enough to know what he's going to do, and I imagine he's already made his decision."
Back in April, he also said: "I'm not inside Julian Alvarez's head. It's normal that an extraordinary player like Julian Alvarez is wanted by Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona. It's normal because he's very good."
Contract and Transfer Details
Alvarez joined Atletico from City two seasons ago for approximately £81.5m, and has since racked up 49 goals and 17 assists in 106 appearances across all competitions for Simeone's outfit.
According to Marca, Alvarez has already turned down an £8.63m contract extension and has no desire to prolong his stay at the club. However, prising him away could prove tricky, with his current deal running until 2030.
To further complicate matters, his Atletico contract contains a £431.6m buyout clause, though should the Spanish club decide to cash in, the actual transfer fee, while still substantial, would be considerably lower.
Marca have also reported Alvarez has his heart set on a switch to Barcelona, yet with the Catalan giants frequently struggling to fund major transfers, it could prove a tall order for Hansi Flick's side to land the South American.
