Did he say no to Arsenal? Inside the Gunners’ failed bid to sign Julian Alvarez
By Luke Oluoch, September 2, 2026Following the close of the English Premier League transfer window, details are emerging about how top-flight clubs navigated the frantic final moments to make major signings and balance their squads.
For Arsenal, however, deadline day wrapped up without any forward signings, despite the position remaining the top priority for Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta.
Argentine striker Julián Álvarez was the club’s primary offensive target, with stakes raised after Gabriel Jesus’s departure created an urgent need for a replacement. According to multiple reports, Álvarez will remain at Atlético Madrid for another season, having accepted his situation and ruled out a summer move.
Arsenal pursuit of Julian
It is understood that Arsenal made inquiries until the final hours, but Álvarez was only interested in a move to Barcelona.
Renowned journalist David Ornstein reported that while the Arsenal hierarchy was willing to support a deal to secure a replacement, an agreement could not be reached. Ornstein previously noted that the former Manchester City star spoke directly with Arteta and voiced his unwillingness to join Arsenal, preferring instead to stay in La Liga with Barcelona.
Álvarez’s push to join the reigning Spanish champions took a dramatic turn when Atlético Madrid’s Board of Directors decided against selling the former Premier League winner.
In an official club statement released on August 27, 2026, the board unanimously supported the decision not to negotiate with Blaugrana, arguing that a transfer was off the table after Barcelona failed to follow standard transfer market procedures.
Barca shifts focus to Jesus
Recognising the new hurdle, Hansi Flick’s team shifted focus and ultimately signed Gabriel Jesus from Arsenal.
Despite the setback, Ornstein believes the Gunners retain enough star power and depth to compete as they defend their title this season, while keeping open the possibility of revisiting a top-tier target in the future.
Following the transfer saga, the Argentine returned to Atlético’s training complex on Sunday, August 30, 2026, greeting young fans cheering his name as Arsenal’s hopes of landing a world-class attacker faded.
The transfer window also left Arsenal fans in more pain after they failed to lure Vinicius Jr to join them despite positive talks.