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Arsenal to pay £128M for Julian Alvarez transfer

9/1/2026

Summary

Atlético Issues Ultimatum

Atlético Madrid gave Julian Alvarez an ultimatum to apologise and stay, or transfer to Arsenal before the deadline.
Alvarez missed three training sessions last week because of a stomach bug and mental strain.
He trained alone on Friday before rejoining the squad after being omitted from the 3-1 Sevilla win lineup.
Diego Simeone and assistant Gabi publicly praised Alvarez on his return, urging his commitment.

Summary

Arsenal Chases Alvarez

Arsenal are chasing Julian Alvarez from Atlético Madrid, prepared to pay up to £128 million, which would break the British record.
Arsenal have already completed five signings, including Bruno Guimarães for £75 million and Ezri Konsa for £55 million.
Mikel Arteta said he is disconnected from deadline-day deals and left decisions to the club’s recruitment staff.
Gabriel Jesus is set to join Barcelona for £8.57 million plus add-ons, with a medical scheduled Monday.

History

Historical Context

In 2009 Cristiano Ronaldo moved from Manchester United to Real Madrid for £80 million, the highest transfer fee ever recorded. He scored 33 goals in all competitions that debut season, helping Madrid become the league’s highest-scoring side. The deal set a new benchmark that has driven successive fee inflation across European football.

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Atlético Issues Ultimatum

Atlético Madrid gave Julian Alvarez an ultimatum to apologise and stay, or transfer to Arsenal before the deadline.
Alvarez missed three training sessions last week because of a stomach bug and mental strain.
He trained alone on Friday before rejoining the squad after being omitted from the 3-1 Sevilla win lineup.
Diego Simeone and assistant Gabi publicly praised Alvarez on his return, urging his commitment.

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