Arsenal’s hopes of signing Julián Álvarez may have taken another hit, with the Atlético Madrid striker now leaning towards an agent with strong Barcelona connections.
The Gunners have been keeping an eye on the Argentine’s situation, particularly since his failed move to Barcelona last summer.
However, Álvarez’s latest career decision seems to point him further away from London and closer to the club he wanted to join in the first place.
A new favourite enters the picture
Last week, reports from Argentina confirmed Álvarez had parted ways with Fernando Hidalgo, his representative since he was 15.
The split followed a difficult summer, with the striker unhappy about how his proposed Barcelona transfer had been handled.
At first, Javier Pastore looked almost certain to replace Hidalgo. The former Argentina international, who also represents Enzo Fernández, was reportedly in advanced talks with the player’s family. Now there’s been a change of direction.
According to Mundo Deportivo journalist Ferran Martínez, Pablo Barquero has become the leading candidate to take over Álvarez’s career.
The 26-year-old and his family are said to be particularly impressed by Barquero, with an agreement expected to be formalised soon.
Jorge Mendes and Pastore were also considered, yet Barquero appears to have won them over. And there are a couple of interesting reasons behind that decision.
More Barcelona connections, less Arsenal hope?
Barquero already knows Álvarez from their time in Manchester. He represents Rodri, who played alongside the Argentine at Manchester City.
That existing relationship has apparently helped build trust between the two.
Mundo Deportivo also explains that Álvarez appreciates Barquero’s experience and relatively low-profile approach to his work. And his client list is interesting, too.
According to Transfermarkt’s agency records, Barquero represents just two players besides his potential new client: Rodri and former Wolves winger Pablo Sarabia. He also works with Juanma Lillo, the former Manchester City assistant manager.
So there are certainly connections to English football. However, his relatively small portfolio and recent business suggest his focus lies much closer to Spain.
Most importantly, Barquero handled Rodri’s move from Manchester City to Barcelona during the summer. That means he already has a working relationship with the Catalan club, which happens to be Álvarez’s preferred destination.
Of course, choosing an agent with Barcelona connections doesn’t guarantee anything. Still, it’s difficult to ignore the direction things are heading.
Just days ago, our coverage suggested Arsenal were interested in negotiating a deal. They also explained that Álvarez wanted his new representative to help arrange an exit, possibly in January.
Now, the man seemingly chosen for that job has recently completed a major transfer to Barcelona. So that’s hardly the most encouraging development.
Álvarez hasn’t secured his move anywhere yet, but the signs are beginning to point away from the Emirates.
