Arsenal have revealed they will sign Julian Alvarez as Emmanuel Petit backs a blockbuster move
Arsenal are tipped to make a surprise move for Manchester City striker Julian Alvarez, with club legend Emmanuel Petit identifying the Argentine as the perfect striker for Mikel Arteta.
Speaking to Ignition Casino, Petit said the Atletico Madrid striker has the “personality and character” needed to take the Gunners to the next level of European football.
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Arsenal have a good chance to sign Julian Alvarez
The World Cup winner has been a long-time admirer of Alvarez, noting his impact during his trophy-laden spell at Manchester and promotion to La Liga.
Petit believes the Emirates’ tactical set-up, along with a strong number of Spanish-speaking players, will allow the 26-year-old to flourish.
Speaking to Ignition Casino (quoted by The Mirror), Petit said:
“When Julian Alvarez played for City, I liked him a lot.
“He didn’t start every game, but every time he played… he was really special. He can score goals and provide assists, but he has a lot of aggression, personality and character.”
Petit insisted that Álvarez’s intelligent movement and technical ability make him a “top player” who will integrate seamlessly into Arteta’s fluid front three.
Although Alvarez left City in search of more regular minutes, Petit suggested that Pep Guardiola would be “very happy to have him back,” underscoring the huge respect the striker holds throughout the Premier League.
Petit went on to say that Arsenal have a good chance to sign him because of many factors, including the way he plays forward.
He said: “Definitely, if Arsenal have a chance to get him, with the Spanish players and the way they play up front, I think that would be good news for Arsenal. That would be a great addition to the team and a statement.”
Alvarez will be a statement signing for Arsenal
Argentina’s career figures support Petit’s high praise. During his two-year stint at Manchester City, Alvarez was impressively efficient, scoring 36 goals in all competitions and helping the club to a record treble.
His clinical condition followed him to Spain; since joining Atletico Madrid in 2024, he has scored 41 goals for the club, including 7 goals in the current 2025/26 La Liga campaign.
| The club | Appearance | Goals | It helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA River Plate | 122 | 54 | 31 |
| Manchester City | 103 | 36 | 19 |
| Atlético de Madrid | 91 | 41 | 14 |
He is now being linked with a move to top Premier League clubs who want to sign him, including Chelsea and the Gunners.
Chelsea are reportedly moving forward in negotiations to sign the Argentinian player, but Arsenal are still very much in competition with the Blues.
The Gunners have been interested in him and could offer Gabriel Jesus as part of a swap deal to seal the deal.
