Arsenal eye Atletico Madrid attacker after missing out on Alvarez
Arsenal are reportedly preparing a move for another Atletico Madrid attacker in January, turning their attention to Alex Baena after failing to prise Julian Alvarez away from the Spanish capital during the summer.
According to Team Talk, Arsenal are interested in signing Baena and could look to make their move before the end of the season. The report suggests the club's focus has shifted towards the winger after accepting that Atletico Madrid have no intention of selling Alvarez in the near future.
The Friday Injury Tracker
Who's out, who's back and what it means for the next two games.
Alvarez pursuit stalls
Arsenal continue to monitor Alvarez, but there is an understanding at the club that Atletico Madrid will not part with him in January having already rebuffed interest over the summer. That has reportedly pushed Baena up Arsenal's list of attacking targets as they look for alternative ways to strengthen the forward line.
The Gunners already possess a strong squad, but the report notes they remain keen to add further quality, particularly with question marks over the regular involvement of players such as Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi this season. Any January business would likely be shaped as much by departures and squad rotation as by incoming additions.
Atletico Madrid hold the cards
Even if Baena himself were open to a move, Arsenal would still need to convince Atletico Madrid to sanction his exit, something that proved impossible with Alvarez just months ago. The Spanish club's willingness to negotiate will be the decisive factor in whether the interest develops into a concrete approach.
For now, the report indicates this is an area Arsenal are actively assessing rather than a deal that is close to completion. Team Talk's report should be treated as transfer interest at an early stage, with no indication yet of a fee or formal approach.
January will offer a clearer picture of how serious Arsenal's intentions are, both in terms of a renewed push for Alvarez and any fresh move for Baena, as Arteta's side continue to weigh up how best to add depth and quality to their attacking options.
