Arsenal’s pursuit of Julian Alvarez has reached its most important stage after a summer dominated by uncertainty, public arguments and conflicting messages.

The Argentina international has wanted to leave Atlético Madrid, but his preferred destination has always been Barcelona.

That created a major problem for Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta have admired Alvarez throughout the window, but they were unwilling to make an enormous offer without knowing that he genuinely wanted to return to England.

Barcelona’s interest initially appeared to place the Gunners at a considerable disadvantage.

The Spanish champions submitted an £86 million bid and club president Joan Laporta publicly encouraged Atlético to accept it.

However, Atletico reacted pretty angrily.

They accused Barcelona of handling the pursuit improperly and insisted their refusal to negotiate was based on principle rather than price.

That position has now been formally supported by the Atlético board, who have completely ruled out selling Alvarez to their domestic rivals.

Atlético confirmed that no talks with Barcelona will take place, and the breakdown has left Alvarez in an increasingly uncomfortable position.

He was booed by sections of the Atlético support during Sunday’s 2-2 draw with Villarreal, with the hostility beginning before he entered the game as a substitute.

Alvarez then went directly down the tunnel after the final whistle rather than joining his teammates in acknowledging the crowd.

The 26-year-old has subsequently missed two training sessions. Atletico have officially attributed his absence to illness, but the timing has added further tension to an already difficult situation.

Barcelona remains his preferred option, yet Atletico’s stance means that route is effectively closed.

Alvarez must now choose between remaining in Madrid or giving Arsenal permission to complete one of the biggest transfers in their history.

Arsenal given major Julian Alvarez encouragement after Atlético Madrid update

The latest update from the BBC suggests the groundwork has already been completed.

Discussions between Arsenal and Atlético over a club agreement have been 'positive', meaning negotiations would not need to begin from the start if Alvarez approves the move.

They claim a transfer could consequently progress very quickly once the player gives his answer, with Atletico willing to do business with the Gunners.

Atlético have been seeking around £128 million, and Arsenal believe they can finance a deal, although they are not expected to submit a formal bid without receiving clear encouragement from Alvarez.

Berta’s involvement could be particularly useful.

Arsenal’s sporting director spent almost 12 years at Atlético and possesses detailed knowledge of the Spanish club’s hierarchy, negotiating methods and financial expectations.

However, Berta also knows time is running out.

Completing the medical, contract and registration process for a transfer of this size will require Alvarez to make a decision soon.

Arteta declined to discuss the £200,000-per-week forward during his latest press conference, but Arsenal’s interest remains active.

The clubs appear ready to do business, so everything now depends on whether Alvarez is prepared to abandon his Barcelona plan and commit fully to Arsenal.