Mansion Sports – Atletico Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has responded to reports linking Julian Alvarez with a move to Arsenal this summer.

He acknowledged that The Gunners are indeed among several elite clubs monitoring the Argentine forward.

Speaking ahead of the first leg of the Champions League semifinal against the Premier League leaders, Simeone admitted that it is "normal" for his star striker to become a target for Europe’s top clubs.

Simeone Confirms Alvarez Is in Demand

Speaking ahead of the first leg at the Metropolitano, Simeone was directly asked about reports that Arsenal are considering a summer move for Alvarez.

The striker, who joined Atletico from Manchester City in 2024, has become one of the hottest properties in European football after scoring 48 goals in 104 appearances for the Spanish club.

Simeone openly acknowledged that the player’s quality naturally makes him a target for the biggest clubs in the world.

"I only see that as something normal. He is an extraordinary player," Simeone told reporters. "There is interest from Arsenal, Paris St Germain, Barcelona, and other teams. But that is not something we are worried about."

Managing an £87 Million Asset

Arsenal are reportedly viewing Alvarez as the clinical finisher needed to turn them into a dominant force in both domestic and European competitions.

However, Atletico have previously indicated that they have no desire to sell, with the player reportedly valued at around £87 million by the Spanish club.

In addition, Alvarez is also reportedly more interested in remaining in Spain, either at Atletico or by moving to another La Liga club, rather than returning to England — with Barcelona reportedly being the Spanish club most interested in securing his services.

Focus on the Champions League

While transfer discussions dominate the headlines, Simeone has once again shifted the team’s focus back to the pursuit of the Champions League trophy.

After reaching the final in 2014 and 2016, the Argentine coach is highly determined to finally secure the title that has narrowly escaped him. However, he warned that past disappointments do not grant entitlement to future success.

"No one owes us anything; we have to work hard and hope Lady Luck is on our side," he added.

"There is no pressure, only responsibility. Excitement because we are close to a major objective, something this club has never achieved.”

“We have to prepare ourselves to play; in the end, the players decide based on their experience, personality, and work ethic. We want to play the match as we imagine it and bring it into situations where we can hurt them."

"It is extraordinary to play in another semifinal. After nine years, for the fourth time in 14 years. It is extraordinary. Amazing. That belief, that enthusiasm, that contagious energy from the fans is truly incredible. We are facing a tough opponent, one that is strong in set-piece situations, and we go there with all our hopes."

Final Preparations at the Metropolitano

Alvarez is expected to feature in the match despite missing Atletico’s last two domestic games due to a minor injury.

His presence will be crucial to Simeone’s attacking plans against an Arsenal defense that has been consistently solid in England this season.