Arsenal is making big moves, looking ahead to the summer 2026 transfer window. The Gunners are reportedly exploring a move for Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez.
This comes after they missed out on midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, who just joined Atlético from Elche. A complex transfer landscape unfolds for the Premier League leaders.
Gunners Set Sights on Álvarez for Summer 2026
Reports emerged in late January 2026 about Arsenal weighing a summer bid for Álvarez. Tentative talks are apparently underway. Atlético Madrid is open to letting the forward leave, a big development.
This opens the door for Arsenal to make a serious play. Álvarez offers versatility and a sharp goalscoring instinct, something any top club needs.
Arsenal’s strategy seems clear: upgrade the attack, add depth in key areas. They’ve already spent over £250 million on eight signings in a recent window, showing they’re not afraid to invest big when the right player comes along. No fee or exact timeline for an Álvarez deal is set. But he’s a top target, for sure.
This potential transfer would reshape Arsenal’s attacking options, adding significant firepower needed for a sustained challenge.
The London club is pushing hard for silverware. They’re leading the Premier League by six points and won all eight Champions League group games. A player with Álvarez’s quality could be the final piece in that puzzle. Imagine him up front, the kind of threat he brings.
Atlético Wins Mendoza Race, Zubimendi Settles In
While Arsenal chases Álvarez, they lost out on another midfield target. Rodrigo Mendoza, a player Arsenal sources confirmed interest in back on December 25, 2025, chose Atlético Madrid instead.
Atlético signed Mendoza from Elche for €16 million plus add-ons. He’s on a contract until 2031, preferring Spain over Premier League moves, according to OneFootball.
Atlético prioritizing Spanish talent under Simeone outbid English clubs, including Arsenal. It’s a reminder that not every target lands in north London.
But they did land Martín Zubimendi, signed by Arsenal in July 2025 for €70 million (£60 million). He’s doing well. Zubimendi’s got 5 goals and 3 assists in 33 games.
He played a full 90 minutes in a Carabao Cup win against Chelsea, showing his importance. He recently spoke to Cadena Ser, denying Real Madrid needed him:
“I don’t think so. Real Madrid has more than enough players.”
He’s focused on Arsenal’s push:
“This is about winning it. The standings are great but we will see who wins.”
Zubimendi also touched on the injury to teammate Mikel Merino. Merino sustained a stress bone fracture against Manchester United on January 25, 2026. That puts him out until season’s end, a real blow to the midfield.
“It pains me… the damage his injury has done to the team is significant,”
Zubimendi commented. Merino’s absence might mean more transfer activity for Arsenal down the line. But for now, the winter window is closed, meaning no immediate replacement can be brought in.
Arteta’s Transfer Philosophy Amidst Success
Mikel Arteta has been clear about Arsenal’s transfer approach, and it makes sense. Back on December 29, 2025, he said,
“The window is there… we have to be actively looking… our job is to always be very prepared because something can happen.”
He repeated a similar sentiment days earlier, emphasizing preparedness to “improve the squad or to protect the squad.” These quotes highlight Arsenal’s proactive stance in the market. Injuries, like Merino’s, show why you always need options.
The club has been in contract talks too, with Bukayo Saka expecting over £300,000/week and Jurriën Timber also discussing a new deal, as Sky Sports reported in November 2025.
This shows Arsenal’s focus isn’t just on new recruits but also securing key current players for the long haul. The club is doing very well right now, leading the Premier League by six points and reaching the Carabao Cup final after beating Chelsea 4-0 on February 4, 2026.
This success makes them an attractive destination. The next big transfer activity will be in summer 2026, where the Álvarez pursuit will likely intensify. Arsenal isn’t holding back.
