Arsenal have a fresh reason to revisit their interest in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez. The Argentine has parted ways with his long-time agent following a failed bid to join Barcelona and is now weighing up a move as early as January.
According to Spanish outlet Sport, the Gunners are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to discuss an unusual deal that could involve the transfer of Victor Dijkeresh.
Alvarez ended his relationship with Fernando Hidalgo, who had represented him since the age of 15. Hidalgo was instrumental in the forward's transfers from River Plate to Manchester City and then to Atletico.
The split reportedly stemmed from disagreements that arose after negotiations with Barcelona fell through.
As reported by El Intransigente, Hidalgo had convinced Alvarez that Atletico were open to significant offers. However, when Barcelona showed serious interest, the Atletico hierarchy refused to let their striker leave.
Cadena SER journalist Pedro Fullana explained:
Julian was very unhappy with how the negotiations with Barcelona unfolded.
Sources indicate that Alvarez and his family felt that Hidalgo had not acted to their expectations. By early September, representatives for Alvarez began searching for a new agent.
Former Argentine international midfielder Javier Pastore has emerged as the leading candidate to take over as his agent, and he also represents Enzo Fernandez.
Negotiations with Pastore are reportedly at an advanced stage, though an official announcement regarding the new representation has yet to be made.
The change in representation could accelerate Alvarez's departure from Atletico. According to Sport, the Argentine is keen for his new agent to secure transfer talks during the winter window.
While Barcelona remains his preferred destination, the Catalan club has yet to make any new attempts to sign him. Following the acquisition of Gabriel Jesus, the need for an additional striker has diminished.
This situation may provide Arsenal with an opportunity.
The Spanish outlet claims that the Gunners are open to discussing the inclusion of Victor Dijkeresh in a potential deal for Alvarez, although no official proposal or agreed terms have yet been established.
Alvarez's position at Atletico is also fueling transfer speculation, as he has played only 173 minutes this season and has yet to score a goal.
Given this backdrop, the former valuation of the player at over €120 million seems increasingly unlikely. His new agent may try to mend fences with the Atletico hierarchy to negotiate a more reasonable exit.
However, much will depend on Atletico's stance and Alvarez himself. If Barcelona does not return to the negotiating table, Arsenal could have a genuine opportunity to battle for the Argentine's signature in January.
