Transfer: Man City told to hijack Arsenal’s move for Julian Alvarez

Former Manchester City star, Micah Richards has called on the club to hijack Arsenal’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez and bring the Atletico Madrid striker back to the club.

Alvarez secured two Premier League titles during his two seasons at City, but a lack of consistent starting opportunities led to his transfer to Atletico for £82 million in August 2024.

Since then, the Argentine forward has netted 49 goals in 107 appearances for the Spanish club, establishing himself as one of the top strikers in European football.

However, the 26-year-old appears eager for a new challenge, having expressed during the World Cup that joining Barcelona this summer is his dream.

Atletico have remained resolute, asserting that they will not sell Alvarez to their league rivals, despite the striker facing significant jeers from his own supporters during their La Liga draw with Villarreal on Sunday evening.

Arsenal have maintained an interest in Alvarez throughout the summer as they aim to enhance Mikel Arteta’s squad with a star forward.

Although Alvarez has indicated that his preference is to move to Barcelona, recent reports suggest that his position may be shifting, potentially allowing the Gunners to make a significant offer.

A substantial fee of €150 million (£128 million) may be necessary to lure Alvarez away from the Spanish capital, with Arsenal considering the sale of Gabriel Martinelli to generate funds for the transfer.

While Richards believes that signing Alvarez would represent a ‘statement of intent’ by Arsenal, he is eager to see his former club City make a late attempt to bring Alvarez back to the Etihad to strengthen Enzo Maresca’s attacking options.

“I think another body in there,” Richards stated on The Rest is Football podcast.

“Of course, they still have Gyokeres, and he deserves respect; he’s a Premier League winner, but I believe if they aim for dominance, they should acquire another forward. Go get Alvarez. That would be a statement of intent.

“If I were Man City, I would definitely be pursuing Alvarez again. 100 percent.”