Arsenal manager downplays links to Barcelona target: ‘I’m really happy with the squad’

Arsenal manager downplays links to Barcelona target: ‘I’m really happy with the squad’ From maintaining that Julian Alvarez will not leave this summer to reportedly opening the door to a transfer to Arsenal , Atletico Madrid have turned the tables around. It is clear that the player is not happy in Madrid and that he wishes out of the club. Atletico Madrid, however, do not wish to negotiate with Barcelona who are willing to spend the big bucks, leading to a difficult situation between Los Rojiblancos and Alvarez.  The player will be called up for the team’s next game in La Liga and it will be interesting to see if the crowd’s reaction to him will influence the transfer in any way.  Barcelona, however, continue to have a very low chance of landing him although Arsenal have emerged as strong contenders given that Atletico Madrid are open to negotiating with the English club. Arteta is asked about Alvarez Where will Alvarez play this season? (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) Speaking to the media after Arsenal’s first game of the season, the Gunners’ manager Mikel Arteta was directly asked if he felt the need for a new striker like Alvarez this summer. “As I said, I’m really happy with the squad that we have,” he said via Mundo Deportivo , making it clear that it was not a necessity. The manager then emphasised on making the most of resources at his disposal rather than talking about external players. “The main focus is to improve the players that we already have because we already have a lot of good things.” Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka were all on the scoreboard for Arsenal in the team’s 3-0 win on the night, and the lack of a number nine was never felt. Crucial days for Barcelona Deco must make a decision soon. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) With just ten days to go on the transfer market front, Barcelona are now in a race against time to solve the centre-forward situation. They continue to believe in a miracle that will see them land Alvarez, but it is crucial that Deco and Co. stay practical and know when to switch to Plan B. After all, every passing day makes a transfer complicated. Arsenal, for their part, are said to be offering Viktor Gyokeres and €80 million for Alvarez – a deal Atletico Madrid are open to. The player, however, continues to insist that he will leave only for Barcelona.