The summer acquisition has scarcely appeared for Arsenal this campaign, prompting several European sides to consider a potential swoop. A mid-season exit appears doubtful, though he may be offloaded in the summer, giving Arsenal ample opportunity to secure a replacement, with a player in that role already under consideration.
Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez remains another target who continues to be associated with a potential move to north London. Recent developments have created considerable excitement, with manager Diego Simeone and club president Enrique Cerezo offering conflicting statements.
Given these circumstances, Express Sport has examined the latest Arsenal transfer speculation and developments as the winter window deadline approaches.
Arsenal ‘keen’ on £48m acquisition
Freiburg midfielder Johan Manzambi is experiencing an impressive campaign in Germany, which has subsequently attracted Premier League interest. Sports Boom have reported that Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are all keen to secure his signature.
Their report suggests that his asking price could prove problematic, though. This is believed to be around £48million, with Freiburg eager to retain him after he progressed through their youth system.
He has featured in 26 matches across all competitions this season, contributing four goals and five assists.
Atletico chief on Alvarez’s future
The La Liga goals for Alvarez have become scarce in recent weeks, with the Argentine enduring a 10-match goalless streak in Spain’s top flight. This led president Cerezo to make a revealing statement last week.
He said: “He’s going through a moment where we don’t know what’s happening to him.”
Simeone subsequently offered a markedly different response when questioned about whether Alvarez retained the supporters’ confidence.
He responded: “Seriously? Are you seriously asking me that? The truth is that Julian Alvarez speaks for himself because of the name he has, the authority he carries, and the career he’s built, right?”
It’s conceivable that the former Manchester City striker could be somewhat unsettled by the transfer speculation, with ESPN recently reporting that Arsenal are considering a summer move for Alvarez.
They have also claimed that an unofficial inquiry concerning his availability has been submitted.