Arsenal show interest in Julian Alvarez with Man City braced for another raid by Mikel Arteta’s side
Arsenal have expressed an interest in signing Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez this summer, talkSPORT understands.
The Argentina star has hinted at a potential Citizens exit after expressing his frustration over his lack of game time in the club's most important matches last term.
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He revealed he would consider his future following the Paris Olympics, with a decision expected soon following Argentina's quarter-final exit to France.
Alvarez, who was part of his nation's Copa America-winning squad this summer, said: "I haven't stopped to think about what I'm going to do.
"Last season I was one of the players who played the most minutes in the team.
“But it's true: in the end, in some important games, it's not pleasant to be left out. I will have time to consider my decision.
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"I haven't stopped to think things through calmly. Once the Olympic Games are over, I will take the time to reflect on what I want for myself.
"Maybe it's annoying to be out in big games; players always want to help on the pitch.”
City boss Pep Guardiola publicly hit back over the 24-year-old's comments, where he stated he wants a swift resolution as to whether he does intend to leave.
Speaking during the club's pre-season tour of America, the Spaniard remarked: "I read he has to think about it, so okay think about it and after that he will inform us what he wants to do.
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"Julian played a lot. He wants more? It’s fine. So that's why [he wants to] think about it. And when he thinks about it, he will inform us.”
And if Alvarez does intend to leave City after two trophy-laden seasons, Arsenal could be an option having registered their interest earlier this summer.
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However it is understood that the north London giants - arguably City's biggest threat in the Premier League title race in the upcoming campaign - did not follow up with anything concrete.
Though it is thought that City are braced for a potential bid from Arsenal, who have prised four people away from the Etihad in recent years.
Arsenal lured ex-captain Arteta back to the Emirates in December 2019 to replace the sacked Unai Emery.
In 2021, Arsenal brought set-piece coach Nicolas Jover to London Colney from City, who has turned the Gunners into corner kick specialists.
The following year, Arsenal snapped up striker Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Alvarez, who has also been linked with Atletico Madrid and Chelsea, has scored 36 goals for City in 103 games across his two season stay so far.
Reports online suggest City would be willing to part ways with the ex-River Plate star for around £80million.
Arsenal are known to be keen to bolster their attack to provide competition for Kai Havertz and Jesus up top.
And with Eddie Nketiah available for purchase, they know they will have to replace the one-cap England international.
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