Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld has advised Arsenal to prioritise a move for Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez instead of Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior.
Alderweireld argued that while Vinicius has the quality to succeed in England, the Brazilian would need to adjust his attitude and behaviour to cope with the demands of the Premier League.
Arsenal have been linked with Vinicius as the Brazilian enters the final year of his contract at Real Madrid amid ongoing contract negotiations.
However, the former Belgium international believes Alvarez would be a better fit for Mikel Arteta’s side.
“Who is the player to elevate Arsenal to the next level?
“For me, it would be Alvarez over Vinicius Junior. I am a huge admirer of Alvarez. Arsenal currently have Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz, but at times I feel they require additional quality in their attack, and Alvarez is an exceptional striker with a tremendous work ethic as well.
“I believe Vinicius Junior possesses the ability to adapt to the Premier League, but he must change his behavior. The treatment he receives in Spain will not be the same in England. People will apply pressure on him. That is simply the reality.
“That’s the nature of the Premier League. There are formidable centre backs and robust full backs. When facing a skilled opponent, they will apply pressure, and that will be a significant adjustment for him.
“Can he handle it like Eden Hazard did? Vinicius Junior has the talent. He’s fast and very direct. I think if he were to join Arsenal, it would be beneficial for the Premier League as it would introduce a great deal of excitement and more, but he must recognize that the Premier League is not La Liga.”
Alvarez previously played in the Premier League with Manchester City and has also been linked with a potential move to Barcelona.
