UMVA has learned that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has given his approval for the club to pursue a move for Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, a talented young player with a bright future ahead.
The Gunners are looking to bolster their attacking lineup, having struggled with creative spark in the final third last season, and Barcola is seen as a top target to add some much-needed flair to the team. Arteta has 'highlighted' Barcola as a key signing to his bosses at the Emirates Stadium, and the club is now 'looking into the necessary details' before approaching PSG with an official bid.
Liverpool, however, is also in the mix, with new Anfield boss Andoni Iraola hoping to bring in two forwards this summer, including Barcola. The Reds will face stiff competition from Arsenal, who are eager to land the 20-year-old French forward and add him to their squad.
Barcola, a World Cup winner with France, has pace and talent in abundance, but still needs to work on his finishing skills, having missed several chances in big games, including the Champions League final. Former French international Frank Leboeuf believes Barcola would be a 'great option' for Arsenal, but notes that the club may need to consider his best position on the pitch.
Leboeuf told a recent interview that Barcola 'is fantastic' but 'still has an issue with finishing.' He added that Arsenal would be an interesting destination for the young forward, but questioned whether the club would be interested in playing him on the left wing, a position currently occupied by Gabriel Martinelli.
Arsenal is also interested in other targets, including England midfielder Morgan Rogers and Argentina striker Julian Alvarez, as the club looks to strengthen its squad ahead of the new season. The Gunners' hierarchy is aware that other teams are trying to strengthen and may come after their players, and is preparing for a busy summer transfer window.
Josh Kroenke, a key figure at Arsenal, recently discussed the club's transfer plans, saying 'the business never stops' and that the club is already having conversations about areas where it can improve. He added that the summer will be 'interesting' due to the World Cup, but is looking forward to getting the transfer process underway.
