Toby Alderweireld has advised Arsenal to prioritise a move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez over Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior, arguing that the Argentine's all-round game and work rate would be a better fit for the Premier League champions.
Alderweireld's preference for Alvarez
Speaking to Hajper, the former Tottenham defender said: 'Who is the player to take Arsenal to the next level? For me, it would be Alvarez over Vinicius Junior. I am a big fan of Alvarez. Arsenal have Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz but sometimes I feel they need more quality up front, and Alvarez is an unbelievable striker with a big work rate too.'
Alvarez scored 20 goals for Diego Simeone's side last season, establishing himself as one of the most sought-after forwards in European football. His ability to press, link play, and finish has made him a standout, and Alderweireld believes he would immediately elevate Arsenal's attack.
Vinicius's Premier League challenges
Alderweireld also cautioned that Vinicius would face a significant adjustment if he moved to England. 'I think Vinicius Junior has the quality to adapt to the Premier League but his behaviour needs to change. You don't get the Spanish treatment in England. People will get on top of him. That's the way it is,' he said.
'That's the Premier League. Big centre-backs. Strong full-backs. If they are playing against a good guy, they are going to be putting the pressure on and that's what is going to be different for him. Can he deal with it like Eden Hazard did? Vinicius Junior has the talent. He's quick. He's very, very direct. I think if he joins Arsenal it will be a good thing for the Premier League because it brings so much excitement and everything else but he will have to understand that the Premier League is not La Liga.'
Arsenal's left-wing reinforcements
Arsenal have already strengthened their left flank this summer with the £34m signing of Greek international Christos Tzolis from Genk, while Leandro Trossard has departed for Besiktas. Alderweireld believes Tzolis is well-equipped for English football.
'Don't forget, they have already signed Tzolis. I know he comes from the Belgian league but he is already a good player,' he said. 'He's very direct and strong with big legs and he can handle the physical duels of the Premier League. He can go left or right, he's good at shooting and has already proven himself in the Champions League on the very biggest stage. I think they have already bought a very good player there to play down the left.'
Comparing Tzolis to Trossard, Alderweireld added: 'Trossard has been a good player for Arsenal because he was very creative and dangerous around the box but Tzolis is strong and quick, and will be more dynamic in the Premier League. I think this role will suit Tzolis a lot better than it did Trossard.'
Contract uncertainty at Real Madrid
Vinicius Junior, 26, is out of contract at the Bernabeu next summer. Despite 18 months of negotiations, he has yet to agree a new deal, sparking speculation of a summer exit. Arsenal are reportedly keen to capitalise if the stalemate persists, with Mikel Arteta determined to add the Brazilian to his squad.
However, Alderweireld's comments suggest that the Gunners might be better served by investing in Alvarez, whose work rate and versatility could complement the existing attacking options like Gyokeres and Havertz. The former defender's endorsement of Alvarez adds weight to the growing debate over Arsenal's next marquee signing.
As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal fans will be watching closely to see whether Arteta heeds Alderweireld's advice or pursues the high-profile Vinicius. Either way, the club's ambition is clear as they look to defend their Premier League title and compete in Europe.
