Arsenal lead race for Álvarez as Manchester United keep transfer plans alive

Arsenal are stepping up their efforts to sign Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez, while Manchester United remain optimistic over several transfer targets, Rangers continue to reshape their midfield, and the Red Devils could benefit financially from a potential Alejandro Garnacho transfer.

Mikel Arteta is eager to strengthen his attacking options before Arsenal begin pre-season preparations, with Álvarez emerging as one of the club’s priority targets. The 26-year-old Argentine enhanced his reputation at the FIFA World Cup by scoring the extra-time winner in Argentina’s 3-1 victory over Switzerland, further increasing interest in his services.

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Although Álvarez is reportedly open to joining Arsenal, his preferred option is believed to be remaining in Spain, with Real Madrid and Barcelona viewed as his favoured destinations.

Negotiations could also prove challenging due to the clubs’ differing valuations. Arsenal are reluctant to exceed £90 million for the striker, while Atlético Madrid are reportedly seeking a fee in excess of £100 million. Despite the gap, the Gunners are continuing to pursue a deal in the hope of completing the transfer before the new campaign begins.

Meanwhile, Manchester United remain confident that moves for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, Chelsea’s Andrey Santos and free-agent goalkeeper Karl Darlow have not yet been ruled out.

Recent reports suggested Ederson’s proposed move to Old Trafford had collapsed following concerns during his medical examination. However, sources close to United insist discussions remain ongoing and that the Brazilian midfielder is still viewed as a key target.

Manager Michael Carrick is keen to reinforce his midfield following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s injury, while Santos also remains under consideration. The Brazilian enjoyed an impressive second half of last season after working under Liam Rosenior during a loan spell at Strasbourg before returning to Chelsea.

United have also retained an interest in experienced goalkeeper Karl Darlow. The 35-year-old was previously considered by the club several years ago and arrives on the back of a campaign in which he made 22 appearances for Leeds United.

Elsewhere, Rangers are continuing their midfield rebuild despite already completing the signing of Cameron Devlin.

With Nicolas Raskin and Connor Barron both expected to leave Ibrox in the coming weeks, the Scottish club are actively assessing further reinforcements. Their current midfield options include Tochi Chukwuani, recent arrival Dan Neil, Mohamed Diomande, Lyall Cameron, Jose Cifuentes and Nedim Bajrami.

Rangers are also monitoring additional targets, including Partizan Belgrade captain Vanja Dragojevic, Tromsø midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl and Scotland international Lewis Ferguson, as they prepare for further squad changes.

Manchester United could also receive an unexpected financial boost should Chelsea decide to sell Alejandro Garnacho.

The Argentina international joined Stamford Bridge from Old Trafford for £40 million last summer, with United negotiating a 10 per cent sell-on clause as part of the agreement.

Garnacho endured a difficult first season in west London, struggling to establish himself as Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League and failed to qualify for European competition.

Chelsea are now reportedly prepared to listen to permanent offers in the region of £42.5 million, with Serie A side Roma among the clubs showing serious interest in the 22-year-old. Any future transfer would trigger United’s sell-on clause, providing the club with a share of the transfer fee.

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