Arsenal handed Julian Alvarez encouragement as training footage emerges
Arsenal target Julian Alvarez was not spotted in training with Atletico Madrid on Wednesday as speculation over his future continues to grow.
The 26-year-old is said to be feeling unwell, but the news comes amid a huge decision over his whereabouts after next week.
The Gunners are hoping that the former Manchester City man agrees to join them before the transfer window closes, after reportedly indicating that they would be willing to meet Atleti's £128.5million asking price.
Alvarez has pushed for a move to Barcelona all summer and has not yet indicated his willingness to return to the Premier League, but Arsenal remain hopeful.
Atleti have refused to sanction any deal with Barcelona for the striker, who is under contract at the Metropolitano Stadium until 2030 after joining in a deal worth up to £81m in 2024.
The home faithful booed and whistled Alvarez on Sunday as he was brought off the bench in a 2-2 draw with Villarreal.
Julian Alvarez missing from training as theories emerge
Alvarez arrived at Man City after Mikel Arteta had already been gone for several years, but he is the type of striker the Arsenal manager is fond of.
The talented Argentine is high-pressing, speedy and capable of bringing others into play.
Arsenal have further strengthened their midfield and their defence this summer with the signings of Bruno Guimaraes and Ezri Konsa, but the attack still appears to lack world-class quality.
After missing out on Vinicius Junior, Alvarez, who scored 20 goals and provided 10 assists across all competitions last season, appears to be the next best option for the Gunners.
It remains to be seen whether he will take the move to North London, however, with there being several ways to see his absence from training, if he is not simply unwell.
Arsenal will hope that it is a sign that the Argentine's position at Atleti is growing more unstable and that he will be forced to accept a move to the Emirates Stadium.
But others may well anticipate that Alvarez is attempting to force a move to Barcelona before the window closes.
How would Arsenal line up with Alvarez?
Alvarez would make a formidable addition for Arsenal, if he is to accept the move before next week's deadline.
The 26-year-old can play as a winger, and could appear on the left for the Gunners, but is best through the middle.
Arteta will be unlikely to want to leave Kai Havertz out, however, meaning Alvarez could play an inside role on the left.
Regardless, Alvarez's arrival would provide Arsenal with plenty of dangerous options and a large injection of quality into their attack.