Alan Shearer Backs Arsenal to Sign Julian Alvarez and Strengthen Premier League Title Bid
Alan Shearer has expressed strong support for Arsenal to secure the signing of Julian Alvarez, the striker currently with Atletico Madrid. The former England forward believes bringing Alvarez in would strengthen Arsenal’s grip on the Premier League title race.
Chance to Capitalize on Alvarez’s Unrest
Alvarez has reportedly shown a desire to leave Atletico Madrid, aiming to join Spanish rivals Barcelona. Still, Atletico appear unwilling to sell directly to Barca, which might open an opportunity for Arsenal to step in and complete the transfer before the deadline. Reports indicate Alvarez may now be more open to joining Arsenal after initially preferring a move to Camp Nou.
Arsenal are looking to bolster their attack following mixed results from £64 million signing Viktor Gyokeres during his debut season at the Emirates Stadium.
Shearer Predicts Impact on Title Race
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer suggested Arsenal could take advantage of the tension 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 maybe a small window for Arsenal to nab him. And if they do, it’s done by the way [the Premier League title race]."
Alvarez Faces Backlash from Atletico Fans
Supporters of Atletico Madrid showed their frustration by jeering Alvarez during the recent 1-1 draw against Villarreal. His wish to join Barcelona has sparked controversy among the club’s fanbase.
Since moving from Manchester City for £82 million, Alvarez has scored 49 goals in 107 appearances over two seasons. Despite winning league titles in England, he struggled to break into the City starting lineup because of Erling Haaland’s dominance.
Further Calls for Arsenal to Act
Micah Richards also encouraged Arsenal to test Atletico’s willingness to sell, saying,
"I would actually go for a striker if I was Arsenal. We’ve seen the situation with Alvarez at Atletico. He was booed by his own fans recently and there are reports he wants to go to Barcelona. But will Atletico sell him to Barca? Maybe Arsenal should sneak in with an offer. He’s clearly unhappy. If Arsenal had Alvarez, he would take them to the next level."
What Alvarez Could Mean for Arsenal
With Alvarez unsettled, a formal approach from Arsenal could end the saga quickly. The Gunners lifted the Premier League trophy last season for the first time since 2004 and reached the Champions League final. Adding a proven winner like Alvarez would intensify fear among their English rivals.
Mikel Arteta’s squad began their title defense strongly with a 3-0 win over newly promoted Coventry City. Bringing in Alvarez before the transfer window closes could provide a significant boost for the remainder of the campaign.
- LaLiga Fixture: Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid - 29 Aug 2026, 21:30
- Premier League Fixture: Aston Villa vs Arsenal - 31 Aug 2026, 21:00






