Arsenal are reportedly set to intensify their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola this week, with the club said to be receiving positive signals over a potential transfer. The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the Gunners' primary targets during the current transfer window.
World Cup Performance Boosts Interest
BBC Sport reports that the club have had the France international on their radar for some time, and ran the rule over him during France's match against Sweden in the World Cup on Tuesday evening. Barcola was handed a starting berth by Didier Deschamps and repaid his boss with a second-half goal to seal their progress.
The French winger made 49 appearances in all competitions for PSG last season, contributing 13 goals and seven assists. Across his three World Cup outings to date, he has chipped in with one goal and one assist.
Alternative to Morgan Rogers
Morgan Rogers, the England international, is another name high on Arsenal's wishlist, though Aston Villa are reportedly holding out for a hefty £130 million for the midfielder. By comparison, a deal for Barcola — who has two years left to run on his PSG contract — would represent considerably better value for the north London side.
Arteta's Ambitions
Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his attacking options ahead of the new campaign as Arsenal look to retain their Premier League crown, while also harbouring ambitions of going one step further in the Champions League, having suffered final heartbreak against PSG last season.
Competition and PSG Stance
Arsenal's hopes of landing Barcola could receive a significant lift, with RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande appearing set to complete a switch to the French capital. His anticipated arrival is likely to intensify competition for places, potentially freeing Barcola to pursue a move away this summer.
The Gunners are not the only club circling, however, with Liverpool also reported to be monitoring the winger closely. The Reds had themselves been tracking Diomande prior to his decision to join PSG.
Earlier this month, it was reported that Barcola has informed PSG of his wish to depart the club this summer, with the Parisians understood to value him at around £60 million.
Speaking last year, PSG manager Luis Enrique made his position on the player abundantly clear. "Bradley Barcola's future? I have no doubt he'll remain our player," he said. "We like the fact that our players are interesting to other clubs. But he's one of those young players we've been banking on. I expect him to play here for many more years."
