Arsenal are encountering resistance in their efforts to bolster their squad ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season, with approaches for Morgan Rogers, Bradley Barcola, Alex Scott, and Ayyoub Bouaddi all facing obstacles. Aston Villa have reportedly issued a firm stance against selling Morgan Rogers, valuing the England international at a British record €150million (£130m) according to The Telegraph. The Gunners had identified Rogers as a key attacking target, as reported by BBC Sport earlier in June, but Villa believe he is worth more than Elliot Anderson, who recently moved to Manchester City from Nottingham Forest for €134m (£116m).
Paris Saint-Germain are similarly unwilling to part with Bradley Barcola, with The Athletic reporting the Champions League holders value the winger at over €134m (£116m). Arsenal had shown interest in the 23-year-old, considered one of the best in his position, but PSG are adamant about retaining his services despite Barcola’s hesitation to extend his contract at Parc des Princes. PSG also believe, like Villa with Rogers, that Barcola’s value exceeds that of Anderson.
A move for Alex Scott has also hit a snag, with Bournemouth rejecting an initial approach from Arsenal, as reported by the Daily Mail. This setback follows the rejection of a verbal offer, below €69.5million (£60m), for Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes last Friday, as reported by The Athletic. Reports from earlier in June, including one from BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel, suggested it could take upwards of €80m (£70m) to secure Scott’s signature.
Finally, Arsenal face competition from Manchester City in the pursuit of Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi. The Athletic reports that City are considering a deal to sign the 18-year-old permanently, with a loan back to Lille for the 2026-27 season. Arsenal had previously opened discussions with Lille regarding Bouaddi, who has impressed for both his club and Morocco at the World Cup, according to The Times. City’s interest adds another layer of complexity to Arsenal’s summer transfer plans. These developments suggest Arsenal will need to significantly adjust their offers or explore alternative targets to strengthen their squad.
