Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards has urged the Premier League club to make a late move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, despite Arsenal’s continued interest in the Argentine.
Alvarez won two Premier League titles during his two-year spell at City but struggled to secure regular starting opportunities. He eventually left the Etihad for Atletico Madrid in August 2024 in a deal worth £82 million.
The 26-year-old has since established himself as one of Europe’s leading forwards, scoring 49 goals in 107 appearances for the Spanish side. However, Alvarez is reportedly considering his future and revealed during the World Cup that joining Barcelona this summer remains his dream.
Atletico have maintained that they are unwilling to sell the striker to a domestic rival, even after he was jeered by some of their supporters during Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Villarreal. Arsenal, meanwhile, have remained interested in the forward as Mikel Arteta seeks to further strengthen his attack.
Recent reports suggest Alvarez’s stance could be changing, potentially giving Arsenal an opportunity to make a major offer. Atletico are believed to want around €150 million (£128 million) for the striker, with Arsenal considering the sale of Gabriel Martinelli to help finance the deal.
Richards believes Alvarez would be a major statement signing for Arsenal but would also like to see City attempt to reunite with their former striker.
“I think [Arsenal need] another body in there,” Richards stated on The Rest is Football podcast.
“Of course, they still have Gyokeres, and he deserves respect; he’s a Premier League winner, but I believe if they aim for dominance, they should acquire another forward. Go get Alvarez. That would be a statement of intent.
“If I were Man City, I would definitely be pursuing Alvarez again. 100 percent.”
