Arsenal change Alvarez and Barcola plan as they 'push for quick transfer'

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Arsenal are making a deal for

Julian Alvarez

their top priority, with

Bradley Barcola unavailable for transfer

. The Gunners have been seeking to bolster their attacking options this summer as they prepare to defend their

Premier League

crown next season.

Atletico Madrid striker Alvarez and Paris Saint-Germain winger Barcola have been two of the most prominent names touted for a switch to the Emirates Stadium. Alvarez has made clear

his desire to depart Diego Simeone's side

, sparking a scramble amongst Europe's top clubs to secure his signature.

Barcelona

are believed to have tabled a proposal to their

La Liga

counterparts involving Ferran Torres plus cash for the 26-year-old, though Atletico turned down the approach. The forward possesses a reported release clause of €500million (£432m) and Atletico have previously warned any suitors they must meet their asking price.

Barcola, meanwhile, endured limited playing time at

PSG

last season. That has alerted

Arsenal

to the prospect of him becoming available this summer, with

Liverpool

also showing interest.

However, the Independent reports that the European champions wish to retain him. It's suggested the circumstances may shift following the World Cup, but Arsenal are presently pursuing a 'quick deal' for Alvarez as their alternative.

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It is understood they are keen to complete a deal before pre-season begins, as competition for the player appears to have eased. A previous sticking point has been Arsenal's reluctance to exceed £90m, while Atletico are holding out for in excess of £100m.

In a further boost to the Gunners, Spanish radio station COPE reports that Atletico are refusing to negotiate with Barca and are instead working with Arsenal on a deal for Alvarez.

Opening up about his future back in June, he said: "I spoke with people at the club, with those I had to speak with and the best thing for everyone is a transfer and I want to fulfil my dream.

"It's not the time to talk about this, but I also can't hide ⁠it. I try to ⁠be an honest person."

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