Arsenal collect Julian Alvarez transfer verdict as Barcelona ‘find’ alternative

Both Arsenal and Barcelona sought to sign Julian Alvarez during the summer transfer window, but the forward remained at Atletico Madrid after the club refused to sell to their domestic rivals. While Alvarez reportedly favored a switch to Barcelona, neither side completed a permanent transfer for the Argentina international before the deadline passed.

Barcelona adapted to missing out on Alvarez by deploying Raphinha as a central striker under manager Hansi Flick. The Brazilian forward has scored 12 goals in seven matches, helping Barcelona achieve eight straight wins, whereas Arsenal recently suffered a 3-0 defeat against Brighton.