Pep Guardiola responds to speculation about Julian Alvarez (Image: Getty)
Pep Guardiola has revealed that he is planning for next season with Julian Alvarez as a Manchester City player.
The forward has been heavily linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium this summer, with the Argentina international fuelling speculation by insisting conversations will need to take place to establish his role in the team.
Alvarez is unlikely to be in short supply if City give the green light for a move, with Arsenal and Atletico Madrid among his suitors. However, Guardiola insisted there was “no news” regarding the 24-year-old.
After his team's 4-2 pre-season win over Chelsea, the Spaniard said: “No news. I have nothing to say. He will come back. I am counting on him, but he said in the news that the decisions will be taken all together.”
“Now he has to rest and when he feels ready to come back, he will come back.
“I'm sure that when he comes back, I'll hug him and congratulate him for the Copa America, for the Olympics and we'll start working together. That's the reality. What's happening in the meantime, I have a thousand million things to think about for the team.”
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Julian Alvarez has already fueled speculation about his future (Image: Getty)
“Next week we will play for the first trophy of the season [the Community Shield against Manchester United at Wembley]. In two weeks we will play again at Stamford Bridge, that is my only concern.
Atletico Madrid are looking to complete a deal for Alvarez and conversations with the former River Plate forward's entourage have taken place to establish whether a deal would be possible and the potential finances involved.
Although they are not the only company to have spoken with its representatives.
According to HITC, Arsenal have also “held discussions” with Alvarez's agency as they look to strengthen their attacking ranks.
Mikel Arteta reportedly an Alvarez fan (Image: Getty)
The Gunners are hoping to sign a right-sided player and their search, along with claims that Alvarez could become available, has led them to 'test the waters' with Alvarez.
Mikel Arteta and Edu are “big admirers” of Alvarez and are monitoring the situation to see if a deal can be struck to acquire the versatile forward. Arsenal have yet to contact City over their No.19 at this stage.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1931862/Man-City-transfer-news-Pep-Guardiola-Julian-Alvarez-Arsenal