The Bradley Barcola transfer situation has swung back towards Arsenal after Liverpool reportedly became prepared to walk away from negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain.
Mikel Arteta’s side remain interested in adding another attacker before the transfer window closes, with Barcola among the high-profile options under consideration.
Liverpool had appeared to be Arsenal’s biggest obstacle in the race for the France international. However, the London Standard reports that the Reds are now prepared to abandon negotiations because they remain too far apart from PSG over a fee.
PSG are reported to value Barcola at around £145million, a figure Liverpool are unwilling to meet. The French champions are also unwilling to significantly reduce their demands despite the winger being keen for more regular football.
Bradley Barcola transfer opens up for Arsenal
Liverpool turning towards alternative targets would remove one significant complication for Arsenal.
The Gunners have monitored Barcola throughout the summer and remain in the market for another major attacking addition after missing out on Vinicius Junior. Arteta has publicly indicated that Arsenal will continue looking for signings if the right player becomes available.
There had already been some encouragement for Arsenal. ReadArsenal reported on Monday that Perry Groves had been told Barcola would prefer living in London, potentially giving the Gunners an advantage if they chose to make a serious move.
The biggest problem remains PSG’s valuation.
Arsenal have already committed £75million to Bruno Guimaraes this summer and £34million on Christos Tzolis, so another enormous attacking deal would represent a significant investment. The Standard reports that Arsenal are nevertheless continuing to monitor Barcola’s situation.
Liverpool have not formally ended their pursuit yet, and Arsenal have not made a reported bid.
But if the Reds do decide that PSG’s demands are excessive, Arsenal could suddenly find themselves with a much clearer route to one of Arteta’s biggest remaining attacking targets.
Comments.
Loading comments…