Alan Shearer Backs Arsenal to Sign Julian Alvarez and Boost Premier League Title Chances

Shearer Urges Arsenal to Seize Julian Alvarez Transfer Opportunity

Alan Shearer has voiced strong support for Arsenal to secure the signing of Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez before the transfer window closes. The striker, who has expressed interest in leaving Spain for a move to Barcelona, could instead end up at the Emirates Stadium, according to Shearer.

Chance for Arsenal to Intervene

Shearer sees a clear opening for Arsenal to swoop in amid the tension between Atletico and Barcelona. Alvarez’s desire to join Barca has met resistance from his current club, which is hesitant to strengthen a domestic rival. This reluctance might create an opportunity for Arsenal to step in and make a bid. Reports suggest Alvarez may be warming to a move to London after initially preferring Camp Nou.

Following the mixed results of £64 million signing Viktor Gyokeres last season, Arsenal are eager to reinforce their attacking options. Adding a player like Alvarez, who is both proven and hungry for change, fits that goal well.

Shearer Predicts Title Impact

"We’ve heard of a lot of pushing from Barcelona and the reluctance from Atletico," Shearer told The Rest is Football podcast. "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 there 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

Alvarez’s situation worsened on Sunday when he was jeered by Atletico supporters during their draw with Villarreal. Fans disapprove of his intention to join Barcelona, adding pressure on the club’s decision-makers. Since arriving from Manchester City for £82 million, Alvarez has scored 49 goals in 107 appearances, helping Atletico clinch two league titles. His limited opportunities at Man City were largely due to competition with Erling Haaland.

Former defender Micah Richards also encouraged Arsenal to test Atletico’s stance, saying:

"I would actually go for a striker if I was Arsenal and we’ve all seen the situation with Alvarez at Atletico. He was booed by his own fans the other night and there are reports he wants to go to Barcelona. But are Atletico going to sell him to Barca? It might be one for Arsenal to just sneak in there and offer a bid. He’s clearly not happy. If Arsenal had Alvarez he would take them to the next level."

Arsenal Aim to Strengthen Title Defence

With Alvarez unsettled, a formal offer from Arsenal could bring a quick resolution. After winning the Premier League last season for the first time since 2004 and reaching the Champions League final, Arsenal are looking to maintain dominance. Their campaign started well with a 3-0 win over newly promoted Coventry City.

Signing Alvarez would add firepower and experience to Mikel Arteta’s squad, sending a strong message to their domestic rivals as the season progresses.

• LaLiga Fixture: Sevilla vs Atletico Madrid on 29 Aug 2026, 21:30
• Premier League Fixture: Aston Villa vs Arsenal on 31 Aug 2026, 21:00