Bradley Barcola snubs Arsenal, prefers Liverpool transfer
Barcola snubs Arsenal, prefers Liverpool transfer

Bradley Barcola has made a definitive decision on his Paris Saint-Germain future, informing the club he will not sign a new contract. The 23-year-old France international has been the subject of interest from both Arsenal and Liverpool, with his relationship at PSG having broken down.

Barcola's PSG situation

Barcola joined PSG from Lyon three years ago and played a key role in the club winning back-to-back Champions League titles under Luis Enrique. However, talks over a new deal, with his current contract expiring in 2028, stalled prior to the World Cup. With Enrique looking to rejuvenate the forward line — which includes Ousmane Dembele, Khvitcha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue — Barcola faces the prospect of reduced playing time. PSG have already opened up a squad space by selling Lee Kang-in to Atletico Madrid and are targeting RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande.

Liverpool lead the race

According to Fabrizio Romano, Barcola has given priority to Liverpool over Arsenal. The Premier League champions have held long-term interest, but Barcola is understood to be keen on a move to Anfield. Liverpool are looking to rebuild under new manager Andoni Iraola following Mohamed Salah's departure and need attacking reinforcements, especially with Hugo Ekitike sidelined by an Achilles injury. There is no truth to reports of Barcelona making an offer.

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Arsenal's interest

Arsenal, also Premier League champions, have long tracked Barcola and are prioritising a new left-winger. Christos Tzolis arrived from Club Brugge this week after Leandro Trossard's departure, but the Gunners are keen for a further statement signing, having missed out on Morgan Rogers to Chelsea. However, Barcola's preference is Liverpool.

Valuation and next steps

Liverpool have been working on a deal since April and are waiting for PSG's valuation, which the BBC reports is around £140 million. Barcola has made his decision clear, and the ball is now in PSG's court.

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