Arsenal handed boost in race for 26yo striker

Arsenal have been handed a boost in the pursuit of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez ahead of the summer transfer window.

Barcelona are determined to land the services of the Argentine and they have reportedly made an informal bid of around 100 million euros.

However, Diego Simeone's side have no desire to accept such a proposal and could hold out for a staggering 140 million euros for a transfer.

At the moment, there is no agreement between the clubs. Even if Barcelona meet the price, they could seek a seven-year payment plan.

Atletico have no desire to accept such an arrangement, and this could result in the 26-year-old striker being sold to a foreign club instead this summer.

Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are among his main suitors, and it has been reported that Alvarez could prefer a return to England if Barcelona can't seal a deal.

The Gunners are prepared to meet the price tag for the marksman. They seem willing to pay the package in a shorter period of time.