Ricky Alvarez 'lined up for Arsenal loan switch in January'

Posted Wednesday, September 21, 2011 by Metro.co.uk

Inter Milan winger Ricky Alvarez, who slipped out of Arsenal’s clutches in the summer, could be set for a shock loan move to the Gunners in January.

Ricky Alvarez 'lined up for Arsenal loan switch in January'
Bad time: Alvarez has managed just one start for Inter in three games

Reports in Portugal claim Emirates chiefs have already held preliminary discussions with the struggling Italian giants, who appear willing to temporarily offload their £12million summer signing.

Alvarez has seen starting opportunities restricted at the San Siro, largely because Wesley Sneijder - who was expected to be sold to Manchester United - has stayed at the club.

As a result, the 23-year-old has struggled to find form, and Nerazzurri bosses are said to be considering letting Alvarez join the Gunners in order to build up his match fitness.

The former Velez Sarsfield star only really broke onto the scene last season following a slow recovery from a serious knee cruciate ligament injury, so it’s no surprise that a lack of regular football is stunting his progression.

Arsene Wenger, though, remains a fan of the attacking midfielder, and could be keen to take on the Argentinean should Inter be willing to deal.

Alvarez started the Italian Super Cup final defeat for Inter, and has since made just two apperances off the subs' bench.