Arsenal could target Barcola after Vinicius Jr deal, with Liverpool also interested
Arsenal are reportedly exploring alternative options for their left-wing position after missing out on Vinicius Jr, who recently signed a contract extension with Real Madrid. Among the players being considered, Bradley Barcola of Paris Saint-Germain has emerged as a notable target, though Liverpool also reportedly holds an interest in the player.
The London club had made a significant bid for Vinicius Jr, with personal terms nearing an agreement, but the 26-year-old ultimately chose to commit his future to Madrid until 2032. This contract extension concludes speculation surrounding his previous deal, which was set to expire within a year, potentially making him available as a free agent.
Following this development, Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, is still keen on acquiring a new left winger. The club’s shortlist reportedly includes three main options: Julian Alvarez, Bradley Barcola, and Iliman Ndiaye.
Arsenal’s Transfer Targets
Julian Alvarez, currently with Atletico Madrid, is a player admired by Mikel Arteta. However, the Argentine striker has also been linked with Barcelona and is thought to be likely to remain in Spain.
Bradley Barcola represents another appealing option for Arsenal. Liverpool is also said to be interested in the Paris Saint-Germain winger, and reports suggest that Liverpool may be further along in negotiations regarding personal terms. PSG’s valuation of the France international could present a challenge, as the club has reportedly priced him at £130m, a figure that is said to exceed Arsenal’s own valuation.
Iliman Ndiaye of Everton is the third player Arsenal has considered. The 26-year-old Senegal international was previously linked with a move to a Saudi Pro League club earlier in the summer. Ndiaye scored six goals for Everton last year and also found the net against Iraq in this summer’s World Cup.
In other transfer news for Arsenal, the club is reportedly close to signing Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle. A reported £75m deal for the centre-midfielder is expected to lessen the team’s reliance on Declan Rice and contribute to forming one of the strongest midfields in the Premier League. This wide forward position remains a priority for Arsenal and will be a focus once Guimaraes is officially announced as an Arsenal player. Earlier in the summer, Arteta moved to replace Leandro Trossard, who joined Besiktas, with Greek international Christos Tzolis, who has started the last two friendlies for the Gunners.
Other Transfer Market Activities
Beyond Arsenal’s pursuits, other significant transfer activities are unfolding. Barcelona reportedly submitted a bid of £38.5m for Rodri, but Manchester City is unwilling to let him depart for less than £60m. Manchester City is also said to be exploring a move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, particularly in light of Rodri’s anticipated move to Barcelona.
Chelsea could potentially sell up to 15 players before the summer transfer window closes, with 10 of these players possibly moving away from Stamford Bridge on loan. Newcastle is looking to strengthen its squad at both left-back and right-back positions, and has reportedly checked on 19-year-old Jorge Salinas at Racing Santander, alongside Aston Villa.
In the EFL, Wrexham has reportedly inquired about Ipswich Town’s Alex Palmer as an alternative solution for a new goalkeeper for the Championship season. In Scottish football, Celta Vigo is confident in securing the signing of Couhaib Driouech, potentially beating Rangers to his signature. The SFA has also summoned leading clubs to a crisis meeting to discuss the future of Scottish football.
The transfer window continues to be a period of intense activity and speculation across various leagues, with clubs aiming to finalize their squads before the window closes.
Source: skysports.com
Emeka Nwosu 