Arsenal’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez received an unexpected lift as Manchester City intensified their efforts to sign Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo before the transfer window slams shut. The Gunners have been monitoring the Argentinian striker’s situation at Atletico Madrid, and City’s activity elsewhere might just work in their favour.
Atletico Madrid issued a firm statement earlier this week blocking any potential move to Barcelona. They’re open to negotiations, they insist, but only with clubs showing proper ethics and professionalism. Barcelona didn’t make the cut.
What does this have to do with Arsenal’s chances? Everything, perhaps. City had been weighing up moves for both Alvarez and Gakpo, but the Dutch international has now snubbed Tottenham to choose a switch to the Etihad instead. All parties are currently in discussions to finalise terms before Sunday’s deadline.
Should City successfully land Gakpo, their interest in Alvarez would naturally cool. Arsenal would face one fewer competitor for the World Cup winner’s signature, though Barcelona’s exclusion already improved their position significantly.
The clock is ticking toward deadline day. Arsenal’s transfer business could hinge on developments at the Etihad over the next 48 hours.
Leave a comment