Liverpool's summer transfer activity has been quieter than many supporters hoped, but the weekend brought defensive reinforcements after injuries left Virgil van Dijk as the only fit senior centre-back. Barcelona captain Ronald Araujo is joining on a season-long loan to ease Andoni Iraola's defensive concerns. Attention now shifts back to the attack.
Following Mohamed Salah's move to Turkish side Trabzonspor, the need for offensive additions has grown. Now, Liverpool face a worrying update in their chase for PSG winger Bradley Barcola.
Arsenal make contact for Barcola
Arsenal have emerged as rivals for Barcola. Reports suggest they have approached his representatives, with TEAMtalk indicating the Gunners are preparing to table an offer. Liverpool had earmarked the French talent as their main target this summer but now face fierce competition.
The Premier League champions had turned their focus to Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr, but he has pledged his future to the Spanish club with a new contract, reports the Liverpool Echo. Barcola is reportedly valued at around £145 million, though some reports suggest closer to £128 million. Arsenal are believed to have a long-term interest in the winger to bolster their left flank.
At this stage, Liverpool appear to be in pole position, with Barcola keen on joining the Reds. However, no breakthrough on a transfer fee has been achieved, and time could be running out as Arsenal are ready to invest substantial money.
Spurs face Gakpo obstacle
Tottenham are interested in Cody Gakpo, but Liverpool are reluctant to approve an exit unless they secure two forwards as replacements, according to talkSPORT. The north London outfit are determined to land the Premier League champion, and Spurs have allegedly been told that £70 million might be enough to complete a deal.
The report claims Liverpool's current stance is to retain the player they signed in January 2023, unless they can secure fresh signings in that area, scuppering any transfer for now. Any progress would likely only emerge late in the window, with the deadline set for 1 September, meaning time may not be in Spurs' favour.
The outlet even hinted that insiders have labelled Spurs' chase for Gakpo as a "fool's errand," given Liverpool's unwillingness to let him depart Anfield.
