Atletico Madrid have given Julian Alvarez until Sunday to make a decision; open up to the idea of a move to Arsenal or stay at the club.
Alvarez is believed to be considering his options after being told repeatedly, publicly and privately by Atletico, that he will not be joining Barcelona.
But he is also said to be “struggling” and “confused” with the situation, and has not yet indicated a willingness to seriously consider a move to the Premier League champions.
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Mikel Arteta has been asked about Arsenal’s interest in Julian Alvarez, with the transfer window deadline fast approaching.
As was the case yesterday (Thursday), as far as Arsenal are concerned, nothing has changed. They believe it is unlikely he will join them and until he shows considerable interest in being part of Mikel Arteta’s plans, they will not approach for negotiations.
Those close to the situation in Spain also believe that the longer it continues without clarity from the player, the more likely he remains where he is.
He will not play against Sevilla this weekend, Atletico boss Diego Simeone has confirmed, having not trained for the last three days.
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Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has confirmed that Julian Alvarez will not be playing in his side’s LaLiga match against Sevilla on Saturday.
Atletico CEO Miguel Angel Gil Marin said on Friday: “[Julián] is really struggling. There were people who misled him, who left him confused, and the truth is that I deeply regret it.
“I know him, I’ve been working with him for some time, and he is a great person, a great professional and an excellent footballer.
“He is completely confused and, at the moment, he is going through a very difficult situation, both personally and professionally.”