Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly relaxed their transfer stance on Bradley Barcola, following reports that Arsenal scouted the France international during the World Cup. The Gunners are believed to have made the winger a summer target as they seek to strengthen their left-wing options, with Morgan Rogers and Christos Tzolis also high on Mikel Arteta's wishlist.
Barcola Pushing for Move Amid PSG's Pursuit of Yan Diomande
Barcola is said to be pushing to leave PSG as the club pursues a deal for Yan Diomande, who is valued at around €100 million. Initially, PSG ruled out any sale of the 22-year-old, but fresh reports indicate the French champions could be tempted to sell for the right price. According to The Athletic, Barcola appears reluctant to sign a new contract as he seeks more playing time next season.
Potential Price Tag and Arsenal's Encouragement
Reports now suggest that figures in excess of the £116 million Manchester City paid for Elliot Anderson may be considered by PSG. BBC Sport reports that Arsenal have received encouragement that a deal could be possible. The same report adds that the Gunners planned to scout Barcola during France's 3-0 win over Sweden, in which the winger scored Les Bleus' second goal.
Florent Malouda Backs Barcola for Premier League Success
Former Chelsea star Florent Malouda believes Barcola is ready-made for the Premier League ahead of a potential transfer tussle between Arsenal and Liverpool. "When you look at Bradley Barcola's story, first of all, he's coming from the Lyon Academy," Malouda told BOYLE Sports. "He made the right choices. When he left, it was not easy for him. He left and he won two Champions Leagues in the best team in French football history. Of course, it's challenging when you're competing with Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue to start, but he showed every time he came on that he has the same level, maybe not as consistent, but he has the potential. Choosing his next destination is about whether he is ready to take a leadership role, because that's what will be expected from him. You just won the Champions League, any club buying you will expect you to lead them to winning these kinds of trophies. This is where he will be challenged. He could fit in any Premier League team. He's a very talented young player."
PSG's Official Stance Remains Firm
Despite the reported softening, PSG's official stance is that Barcola is not for sale. However, the club's willingness to negotiate could spark a bidding war between Arsenal and Liverpool, both of whom are keen to bolster their attacking options this summer.
