In what could be one of the most significant transfer sagas of the summer, Liverpool has reportedly entered the race to sign Argentine forward Julián Álvarez from Manchester City, with the aim of forming a lethal attacking partnership alongside Mohamed Salah. However, the Reds face fierce competition from both Arsenal and Bayern Munich, who are also eager to secure the services of the 24-year-old World Cup winner.
Álvarez: The Jewel in City’s Crown
Since joining Manchester City in 2022 from River Plate, Álvarez has made a notable impact under Pep Guardiola. Despite often playing second fiddle to Erling Haaland, Álvarez has proven himself as a versatile and technically gifted forward, capable of playing across the front line. His sharp movement, clinical finishing, and relentless work ethic have not gone unnoticed by Europe’s elite clubs.
With 19 goals and 12 assists across all competitions in the 2024/25 season, Álvarez has demonstrated that he’s ready for a leading role—something that may not be guaranteed at City.
Liverpool’s Vision: Álvarez and Salah
Liverpool sees Álvarez as a potential long-term partner for Salah, or even a successor should the Egyptian talisman eventually depart. Manager Arne Slot, who has taken over from Jürgen Klopp, is said to be a major admirer of Álvarez’s playing style and believes he would complement Salah’s explosiveness with his own intelligence, mobility, and technical flair.
The plan is ambitious: a forward duo capable of recreating the magic of past Liverpool pairings while introducing a new era of attacking dominance at Anfield.
Arsenal and Bayern in the Mix
Liverpool, however, is not alone in its pursuit. Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, is looking to bolster their front line with a reliable goalscorer to partner or rotate with Gabriel Jesus. Arteta’s project, built on possession and fluid movement, could suit Álvarez’s style perfectly.
Bayern Munich is also in the hunt, with reports suggesting that the Bundesliga giants view Álvarez as the ideal complement—or replacement—for Harry Kane, whose future in Bavaria remains uncertain. The German champions are eager to add fresh energy and versatility to their forward line after a disappointing European campaign.
The Price Tag and the Player’s Decision
Manchester City is reluctant to part ways with Álvarez, but interest from top clubs could test their resolve. Sources close to the situation suggest a valuation in the region of £70–80 million would be required to open negotiations.
For Álvarez, the choice may ultimately come down to playing time and project vision. While City has brought him great success, the opportunity to become a focal point elsewhere—especially at a historic club like Liverpool—may be too tempting to ignore.
A Defining Transfer Window
Should Liverpool succeed in landing Álvarez, it would mark a major statement of intent for the post-Klopp era and signal the birth of what could become one of the Premier League’s most fearsome attacking duos. Whether the move materializes remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Julián Álvarez is a man in demand, and his next move could shape the balance of power in European football for years to come.