Alan Shearer Urges Arsenal to Secure Julian Alvarez to Strengthen Premier League Title Chances
Alan Shearer has expressed his belief that Arsenal have a prime opportunity to acquire striker Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid before the transfer window closes. With tension brewing over Alvarez's potential move to Barcelona, Shearer thinks Arsenal could swoop in and land the forward, which might solidify their hold on the Premier League title.
Chance to Act Quickly
Shearer emphasized that bringing in Alvarez would be a significant boost for Arsenal's ambitions. The attacker has shown interest in leaving Atletico Madrid, with Barcelona as his preferred destination. Atletico's hesitation to sell directly to a Spanish rival opens the door for Arsenal to step in. Reports suggest Alvarez has warmed to the idea of joining Mikel Arteta’s side, especially after Viktor Gyokeres’ mixed debut left Arsenal seeking more firepower upfront.
Shearer Predicts Title Impact
The former England international spoke on The Rest is Football podcast, highlighting how Arsenal might benefit from the standoff between Atletico and Barcelona. He said:
"We’ve heard of a lot of pushing from Barcelona and the reluctance from Atletico. It seems like their thinking might be, if we have to sell, we’re not selling to you [Barca]. There’s just maybe a small opportunity or a small window there for Arsenal to nab him, you would think. And if they do it’s done, by the way [the Premier League title race]."
Atletico Fans Show Disapproval
Alvarez’s situation worsened recently when Atletico fans jeered him during their Liga draw against Villarreal, unhappy with his desire to join Barcelona. Since arriving at Atletico for £82 million from Manchester City, Alvarez has scored 49 goals in 107 appearances across two seasons. Though he won two league titles in England, he struggled for playing time behind Erling Haaland at City.
Micah Richards also suggested Arsenal should pursue Alvarez, noting the tension at Atletico:
"I would actually go for a striker if I was Arsenal and we’ve all seen the situation with Alvarez at Atletico. He was booed by his own fans the other night and there are reports he wants to go to Barcelona. But are Atletico going to sell him to Barca? It might be one for Arsenal to just sneak in there and offer a bid. He’s clearly not happy. If Arsenal had Alvarez he would take them to the next level."
Boosting Arsenal’s Title Defence
With Alvarez unsettled, Arsenal's interest could lead to a swift transfer. Having lifted the Premier League trophy last season for the first time since 2004 and reached the Champions League final, Arsenal’s squad already looks strong. Adding a proven winner like Alvarez would increase the threat they pose domestically.
Mikel Arteta’s team started their title defence well with a 3-0 win over newly promoted Coventry City. Signing Alvarez ahead of the deadline would be a major lift for the remainder of the season.
- LaLiga Fixture: Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid, 29 August 2026, 21:30
- Premier League Fixture: Aston Villa vs Arsenal, 31 August 2026, 21:00
