Diego Simeone: Arsenal have shown interest in Atletico's Julian Alvarez

The 26-year-old forward is set to line up against the Gunners in Wednesday's first-leg clash at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano, adding intrigue to an already high-stakes encounter.

Alvarez has been in steady form this season, registering 20 goals in 52 appearances for the Spanish club, and remains a key figure in Simeone's plans.

"I am not in Julian Alvarez's head," said Simeone, when asked about Arsenal's potential interest in the player.

"I just suppose it is normal. He is an extraordinary player. There is interest from Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and other teams. But it is nothing we are concerned about."

Speculation linking the Argentine to a move to north London has been growing, particularly as Arsenal continue to assess their attacking options despite investing heavily last year.

The club spent 64 million pounds on Viktor Gyokeres, who has delivered 18 goals in his debut campaign. However, questions over his consistency have emerged in recent weeks.

Gyokeres was notably left out of the starting line-up for Arsenal's crucial top-of-the-table clash away at Manchester City earlier this month.

He was again benched in the subsequent home fixture against Newcastle United, fuelling debate about his role moving forward. 

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