Liverpool have been handed a potentially worrying development in their efforts to sign Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, with Arsenal reportedly emerging as a serious contender for the Frenchman.
The Reds are approaching a crucial point in the summer transfer window, with limited time remaining to complete the additions they believe are necessary to challenge for the Premier League title again. Liverpool have already made significant changes behind the scenes, with Andoni Iraola taking over from Arne Slot, but further strengthening is still viewed as essential.
Liverpool’s first two arrivals of the summer, Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz, have already been confirmed, but the club’s need for another elite attacking player remains particularly important. Finding a long-term successor or alternative to Mohamed Salah is still considered one of the biggest priorities at Anfield.
Arsenal join the race for Barcola
Liverpool’s pursuit of Bradley Barcola has taken a potentially difficult turn after Arsenal reportedly entered the competition for the PSG winger.
The development could leave Liverpool facing another frustrating transfer battle after Real Madrid reportedly beat the Reds to the signing of Yan Diomande.
Barcola had been identified as a leading alternative for Liverpool, with negotiations reportedly taking place over a possible move to Anfield. However, Arsenal are now believed to have made the French international one of their preferred options after their own plans for Vinicius Junior failed to materialise.
The Gunners had reportedly considered Vinicius as a major target, but the Brazilian has instead committed his future to Real Madrid. As a result, Arsenal have turned their attention towards other left-wing options, with Barcola now appearing high on their shortlist.
Mikel Arteta has already added Christos Tzolis as competition for the position following Leandro Trossard’s departure, but the Arsenal boss is still looking to strengthen his attacking options.
Arsenal are also believed to have considered Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez and Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye. Alvarez is reportedly open to leaving Madrid, although Atletico boss Diego Simeone remains reluctant to sanction his departure.
If Arsenal fail to secure Alvarez, their interest in Barcola could become even stronger, potentially creating another obstacle for Liverpool.
The Reds are reportedly already in agreement with Barcola over personal terms and are now focused on reaching a transfer agreement with PSG. The French champions had previously been demanding around £145 million, although reports have suggested that a fee closer to £109 million could now be enough to convince them to sell.
Liverpool handed fresh Konsa boost
There has also been an encouraging development concerning Liverpool’s interest in Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa, with members of the Villa squad reportedly becoming increasingly concerned that the England international could leave this summer.
According to reports, Konsa is edging closer to a potential exit, which could put Liverpool on alert given their continued need for defensive reinforcements.
Liverpool have already signed Jeremy Jacquet this summer, but another defender is still thought to be high on their priority list. Joe Gomez’s latest injury setback has only increased that need, while Jacquet and fellow young defender Giovanni Leoni are still working their way back to full fitness after injury problems.
However, Villa’s reported £60 million valuation of Konsa could prove to be a major stumbling block.
Such a price would represent a significant investment for an experienced centre-back who is approaching his 29th birthday and has fewer than two years remaining on his current contract.
Nevertheless, Konsa’s versatility makes him an attractive option for Liverpool. The England international is capable of operating both at centre-back and right-back — two positions where the Reds are believed to require additional depth and quality.
