Arsenal and Liverpool are both showing significant interest in Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, according to Fabrizio Romano. The France international has been linked with a move to the Premier League for several months, with previous reports suggesting Arsenal considered a €100 million bid as far back as December.
Barcola’s current contract negotiations with PSG have stalled, fueling speculation about his future. While Manchester United have also been mentioned as potential suitors, Romano highlights Arsenal and Liverpool as the most prominent contenders at this stage. However, the transfer’s progression is heavily linked to the potential signing of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande by PSG.
Should PSG successfully acquire Diomande, it could pave the way for Barcola’s departure, as the Parisian club are generally reluctant to sell players they intend to keep. This was evidenced by their stance regarding Kylian Mbappe, despite the potential for a substantial transfer fee. Barcola, who joined PSG from Lyon, currently has an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) of €70.6 million.
Data analytics firm SciSports suggests Liverpool would be a more suitable destination for Barcola than Arsenal, assigning a Club Fit score of 87 compared to Arsenal’s 68. The analysis indicates a strong alignment between Barcola’s playing style and Arne Slot’s tactical approach at Liverpool, potentially allowing for an immediate impact. While Arsenal’s interest is genuine, the Club Fit score suggests limited playing time, though this could change if either Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli were to depart. Experts such as David Ornstein of The Athletic have previously noted Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Barcola, while French sources indicate PSG are keen to agree a salary increase to retain his services. Daniel Riolo of RMC Sport even suggested Barcola should consider a move to the Premier League given PSG’s recent Champions League successes.
Both Arsenal and Liverpool are looking to strengthen their attacking options this summer, and Barcola represents a potentially exciting addition to either squad. His arrival would likely address the need to rebuild the left side of their respective attacks.
