Julian Alvarez has hinted that he would prefer a move to Manchester City over Manchester United as he nears his “dream” of moving to Europe. Alvarez has starred for River Plate and looks set to secure a transfer away from Argentina this month, with City leading the race for his signature.
The 21-year-old forward caught the eye of scouts all over the world by racking up 24 and 15 assists in all competitions for River Plate last season.
His performances were a huge factor in River winning the Argentine Primera Division and it seems a transfer will soon follow.
Alvarez has a £20.9million (€25m) buyout clause in his contract with the South American giants and has attracted plenty of interest across Europe.
According to The Athletic, his agent, Fernando Hidalgo, recently travelled to Europe to hold talks with potential suitors in Manchester, London and Madrid.
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Alvarez fired River Plate to the title (Image: GETTY)
"Playing in Europe is most people's dream because of those leagues' quality and what it means to be at those clubs," he told Radio La Red in October 2020.
"But I am taking it easy. Obviously I talk to my agent and my family, but I know I have to stay focused on what I'm doing.
"Later the time will come, through the work I am doing."
He added: "On the Playstation I play with Barcelona or Manchester City.”
The Athletic points out that City won’t struggle to sign Alvarez, due to the fact he has played regularly in the Argentine Primera, Copa Libertadores and is a full Argentina international.
That means he will qualify for a GBE, the replacement for the old work permit system which has put up hurdles for Premier League clubs in the past.
While he has spent his whole career with River Plate, Alvarez is no stranger to European football, having had trials with Real Madrid previously.
Despite being impressed, Real were unable to sign him due to his age, but it seems Alvarez is on the brink of getting his move.
Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Juventus, Atletico Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, Aston Villa and United have all been linked to the player, but City are now clear frontrunners.