Arsenal’s decision to allow Gabriel Jesus to move to Barcelona has increased speculation that the club could make another attempt to sign Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez.
Jesus is reportedly set to join Barcelona for around £8.6 million, leaving Arsenal with another important attacking decision to make.
Alvarez has been linked with Arsenal throughout the summer and remains an attractive option because of his versatility.
The Argentine can play as a central striker, operate behind the main forward or contribute from wider positions. Those qualities make him particularly appealing to Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal’s potential interest also makes sense because Gabriel Martinelli is preparing to leave for Al Hilal.
The Gunners could therefore lose two Brazilian attackers while attempting to strengthen their squad for a demanding season.
However, an Alvarez transfer would be extremely complicated.
Atletico Madrid have little reason to sell cheaply, while Arsenal would have to move quickly with the deadline approaching.
The striker’s arrival would nevertheless provide Arteta with another elite attacking option and could significantly change Arsenal’s attacking balance.
The biggest question is whether Arsenal can complete such an ambitious deal at this stage.
Supporters will be watching closely because allowing Jesus and Martinelli to leave without a major attacking replacement could leave the squad exposed.
If Alvarez arrives, however, Arsenal’s late transfer gamble could suddenly look much more convincing.