Chelsea and Barcelona to challenge Arsenal for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, Diego Simeone could be sacked by Atleti – Paper Round
The race for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez appears to be hotting up as Chelsea and Barcelona join Arsenal in the race for his signature. Meanwhile, Atleti head coach Diego Simeone could be in danger of losing his job after 15 years following an internal row about transfers. Elsewhere, Manchester United have missed out on teenage midfield target Patrick Zabi of Ligue 2 team Reims.
Chelsea and Barcelona are set to challenge Arsenal for the signature of Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.
The Gunners are said to be interested in bringing the former Manchester City star to The Emirates as competition for £55 million signing Viktor Gyokeres, who has managed just six Premier League goals so far.
However, Mikel Arteta’s side could face a battle to land the Argentina international, who could cost over £80m to sign.
The Mirror writes: “Arsenal have got competition in the race to sign Julian Alvarez, as London rivals Chelsea have entered the fray alongside long-time admirers Barcelona.
“Alvarez, 26, emerged as a target for Arsenal last month, with Emirates chiefs exploring the conditions of a move from Atletico Madrid.
“Atletico would demand more than the €95 million (£82m) which they paid City for the Argentina international in 2024. Spanish publication Sport have spelled out who’s interested in Alvarez.
“It’s claimed that Arsenal and Chelsea are both pushing hard for the 26-year-old. His agent, Fernando Hidalgo, recently travelled to the UK and could’ve met with both London clubs.
“Arsenal and Chelsea would both be prepared to break the bank, it’s also reported. As things stand, Barca would be Alvarez’s preferred destination, although he’s aware of their financial troubles.”
Atleti considering sacking Simeone
A report in The Sun claims Atletico Madrid are considering sacking Diego Simeone after a “growing internal rift over transfers”.
The Argentine has been in charge of the Liga club for nearly 15 years, but his time could be limited after an alleged falling out with new sporting director Mateu Alemany.
The Sun writes: “But his position is now under serious scrutiny following a strained relationship with new sporting chief Mateu Alemany, according to Spanish outlet Diario Sport.
“Clear differences in vision between Simeone and Alemany came about during the winter transfer window.
“This is just four months after Alemany’s appointment as Atletico’s director of football.
“Those disagreements have spilled into the public domain, souring relations behind the scenes and casting doubt over Simeone’s long-term future.
“In Madrid, there is a growing feeling that the club could be heading for a reset, with sources suggesting Simeone is no longer guaranteed to be on the bench next season.
“Footballing reasons are believed to be at the heart of the issue, rather than personal clashes alone, with recent results piling pressure on the club’s most successful modern-day coach.”
Man Utd miss out on midfield target
The Daily Express reports that Manchester United have missed out on teenage midfielder Patrick Zabi, who is on the verge of signing for Paris FC.
The Red Devils were reportedly one of a number of European clubs interested in the Reims midfielder, but he is set to join the Ligue 1 side in a £21.5m deal.
“According to French reports, United were among a clutch of top European clubs monitoring the Stade de Reims midfielder,” states the Express.
“However, the Ligue 1 outfit have emerged victorious in the race for his signature in a deal valued at €25m (£21.5m), with the transfer set to be completed in the summer.
“Zabi has earned considerable praise since making his senior debut as an 18-year-old last February, going on to rack up 24 first-team appearances, netting twice and registering three assists.
“L’Equipe claims Paris pipped United and fellow Premier League sides Newcastle and Bournemouth to secure his services.
“The youngster also attracted attention from Italian trio Inter Milan, AC Milan and Fiorentina. Whilst his next destination has yet to be officially confirmed, the report suggests it’s merely a formality.
“Journalist Sascha Tavolieri indicated that an intervention from Jurgen Klopp influenced Zabi’s decision to agree terms with the French side, who currently occupy 14th position in France’s top division.”
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