According to English media outlet Football-london, Arsenal attempted to sign Alvarez from Atletico Madrid this summer but were ultimately unsuccessful. Barcelona was also interested in the forward, but Arsenal may have an advantage in future attempts.

Arsenal might have an advantage over Barcelona if they pursue Alvarez again next year, as they failed to sign the forward from Atletico Madrid this summer. A few weeks ago, the 26-year-old was linked with a high-value transfer to Arsenal, and Barcelona also put considerable pressure on Atletico in the bidding war.

Alvarez was reportedly more inclined to join Barcelona, but Atletico Madrid ultimately refused to do business with a La Liga rival, which was a significant boost for Arsenal. However, Arteta was ultimately unable to convince Alvarez to join his project. The Argentine forward will remain in the Spanish capital, at least until January, when he will try to mend his damaged relationship with fans. His near-departure this summer caused strong dissatisfaction among supporters.

It is reported that Barcelona made an official offer of approximately £85 million for Alvarez, but it was quickly rejected by Atletico Madrid. Atletico then responded strongly when asked about the protracted transfer.

Atletico's statement read: "It's not about money, it's about dignity. The player became a victim, but in this case, the only victim is us. Economically and socially, they have harmed us.

"Selling him to Barcelona is 0% likely. There are many lies and half-truths out there, and the only one paying the price is Atletico."

Now, Barcelona's sporting director Deco has also spoken about the controversy. External reports suggested Barcelona offered to pay Alvarez's transfer fee over six seasons, to which Deco responded: "No, when we made our offer, it was to pay over three seasons, like other clubs do. Some clubs even ask us to pay over five years."

Barcelona had planned to pay Alvarez's transfer fee over three seasons, which could benefit Arsenal if they intend to sign the star in 2026.

If Arsenal makes an offer that is too good to refuse and is paid upfront, Atletico Madrid's leadership might be swayed, especially given that installment payments for transfer fees are now very common.

However, whether Arsenal is willing to do so remains to be seen. Although the Gunners have proven in recent years that they don't mind spending big money on key players, the £75 million transfer fee they paid for Guimaraes was reportedly also completed in installments.

According to Sports View, Arsenal did not pay a lump sum but will pay Guimaraes £25 million in three installments.

Meanwhile, when Arsenal reached a transfer agreement with the La Liga club for Zubimendi last year, the payment was slightly higher than his £51 million release clause, totaling £55 million, also paid in installments.

If Alvarez does successfully transfer next summer, and considering that this deal would cost Arsenal at least £128 million unless Atletico significantly lowers their asking price, it is currently unclear whether Arsenal would be willing – or able – to pay this amount in a lump sum.

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