Arsenal hit by double transfer blow as key targets slip away

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Arsenal face a challenging summer transfer window after suffering setbacks in their pursuit of two key targets, with attention now turning to alternative options following the Champions League final.

The Gunners’ interest in Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez appears to be coming to an end, with the Argentine reportedly favoring a move to Barcelona instead. According to Football London, sources involved in the potential deal have confirmed that Alvarez only wants to join the Catalan giants despite interest from Arsenal and PSG.

Barcelona have already submitted a bid for the former Manchester City striker, though it was knocked back by Atletico. However, Alvarez has informed his current club of his desire to move to the Camp Nou, making it difficult for Arsenal to revive their interest in the two-time Premier League winner.

Bournemouth stand firm on Kroupi

Arsenal’s pursuit of Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi has also hit a roadblock, with the Cherries determined to keep hold of their 13-goal striker ahead of their first-ever European campaign.

Bournemouth sources confirmed on Thursday that they will not be selling Kroupi this summer, despite interest from Arsenal and Manchester City among other top Premier League clubs. The club are under no financial pressure to sell and want to continue building around the striker alongside teammates Rayan and Alex Scott.

Any potential move would require a massive fee of up to £85 million to tempt Bournemouth into a sale, pricing out most suitors for the time being.

Alternative targets emerge

With both primary targets now looking unlikely, Arsenal may need to pivot to other options in the transfer market. The club remain interested in adding a left-winger, with PSG’s Bradley Barcola admired ahead of Saturday’s Champions League final clash in Budapest.

Strengthening the midfield remains another priority, while there is also the possibility of dipping into the market for right-back reinforcements.

Owner Josh Kroenke has already indicated that Arsenal will show significant ambition this summer following their Premier League title success. Speaking to NBC Sports, he confirmed that conversations about potential improvements are already underway.

“The business never stops. Right now there are other teams that are already trying to strengthen to come at us for next season,” Kroenke explained. “We’ve already had a few conversations about different areas that we think we can improve, both on and off the pitch.”

The upcoming World Cup in North America will add complexity to the transfer window, though Kroenke noted the convenience of the tournament being held in the United States. Arsenal will need to work quickly once their Champions League campaign concludes to secure their alternative targets before the summer market heats up.