Arsenal transfer latest: Julian Alvarez discussion emerges as director reveals bid for star

Arsenal have yet to strengthen a squad that is competing to achieve the unprecedented quadruple in English football

Arsenal supporters are savouring the moment following their impressive displays in both the Champions League and Premier League this campaign. Yet the club might just be planning ahead with their transfer strategy.

A commanding 3-1 victory away to Inter Milan on Wednesday extended Mikel Arteta's side's perfect record to seven wins from seven matches, securing their place in the knockout stages.

Their remarkable run has vindicated last summer's £250million spending spree, even though their most expensive acquisitions, Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze, have yet to hit their stride consistently.

Nevertheless, Arsenal have historically faltered at critical junctures, so Arteta will undoubtedly be working tirelessly to ensure past mistakes aren't repeated this term. Beyond on-field matters, there remains scope for the north London outfit to conduct transfer business. Here, we examine the latest speculation and reports surrounding the Gunners.

FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page

Julian Alvarez links

Whilst Arteta boasts an abundance of attacking talent at his fingertips, persistent speculation continues to link the Spanish manager with a summer move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez. Arsenal were reportedly eyeing a move for former Manchester City forward before they shelled out £63million on Gyokeres.

However, the Swedish striker has struggled to hit the mark, netting just five times in 20 league outings. David Ornstein of The Athletic has revealed how a move was discussed by the Gunners last summer before interest cooled. However, it was also hinted that the club could reignite their interest come the end of the season, dependant on any outgoings in Arteta's forward line.

Arsenal are likely to face stiff competition for Alvarez, with Barcelona also reportedly keen on the player.

During his two-and-a-half-year stint with City, the World Cup winner bagged two Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy in the 2022/23 treble-winning season. Since moving to Atletico, Alvarez has found the back of the net 40 times in 85 appearances, though he is yet to clinch any silverware with the Spanish club.

Club president reveals £17m offer

Arsenal's recruitment strategy has been largely successful in recent seasons, and Crvena Zvezda midfielder Vasilije Kostov could be the next addition to their roster. The north London side, along with Borussia Dortmund, will have scouts present when the 17-year-old takes to the pitch against Malmo in the Europa League clash on Thursday evening.

The teenager, already capped at senior level for Serbia, has earned comparisons to the likes of Pedri and Nicolo Barella due to his technical prowess and adaptability across various midfield roles.

In conversation with football.london, Crvena Zvezda General Director Zvezdan Terzic confirmed significant interest in the youngster, disclosing: "I can't talk about exactly who has called but we have already received an offer worth €20million (£17.45million) for him."

When questioned about whether Kostov possesses the quality to succeed in English football's top flight, Terzic responded emphatically: "Of course but not just any team, he could play for one of the big six clubs."