Arsenal have not made any approach for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, according to Fabrizio Romano, despite missing out on deals for Morgan Rogers and Yan Diomande. The Gunners had reached an agreement with Rogers’ camp, but the Aston Villa player has opted for a move to Chelsea in a deal reportedly worth £117million.
Chelsea co-director of recruitment, Joe Shields, is understood to have been a key figure in convincing Rogers to choose the Blues. Arsenal also saw their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande fall short, with the player favouring a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain after agreeing personal terms with the French champions.
Romano reported that Arsenal did make inquiries regarding Diomande, but the player’s preference was always PSG. While Arsenal fans speculated about a move for Barcola following the setbacks with Rogers and Diomande, Romano insists there have been no recent checks made on the PSG player by the North London club.
Liverpool are currently leading the chase for Barcola, with the player having reportedly informed PSG of his desire to leave this summer. However, any deal would likely require a significant fee, with PSG expected to demand a substantial sum for the French international. The situation remains fluid, and Arsenal will need to react in the transfer market following these disappointments.
Mikel Arteta had reportedly identified Rogers as a key target, mentioning him in internal meetings as early as January. The loss of both Rogers and Diomande represents a blow to Arsenal’s attacking options ahead of the new season, and the club will now be forced to reassess their plans.
