Arsenal have moved to the front of the queue to sign Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola this summer following a significant shift in Liverpool’s interest, with the French winger increasingly seen as a natural fit for Mikel Arteta’s attacking system and reports from France confirming that the Premier League champions are the most likely destination for the 23-year-old. Liverpool have cooled their pursuit after determining that Barcola’s best position on the left wing would restrict the development of teenager Rio Ngumoha, who the club are committed to developing as a senior left-sided option.
Barcola’s season at PSG has been productive in statistical terms, with 12 league goals and a broader involvement in the club’s Champions League run, but his place in Luis Enrique’s hierarchy has been progressively squeezed by the arrival and form of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. The Georgian has become effectively undroppable in the big matches, leaving Barcola in a rotational role that clearly does not satisfy either his ambitions or his agent’s demands for a contract extension.
PSG have paused all contract negotiations until after the Champions League final on May 30, which happens to be against Arsenal in Budapest. Luis Campos, the club’s sporting director, has taken the view that no major decisions on personnel will be made before that fixture. Once it concludes, Barcola’s future should clarify quickly, with the broad expectation being that PSG would sanction his departure for a fee in the region of £80 million.
Arsenal’s interest is driven partly by Bukayo Saka’s ongoing injury vulnerabilities and partly by the need to add genuine attacking depth to a squad that will defend its Premier League title next season while also competing in Europe. Barcola’s profile as a direct, high-speed left-sided attacker who can deliver in transitional moments aligns with what Arteta has consistently sought. Reports from Spain’s Fichajes indicate Arsenal are preparing a formal offer close to £69 million.
The Champions League final context creates an unusual dynamic. Arsenal and PSG will compete for Europe’s biggest prize in Budapest at the end of the month, and discussions about one of PSG’s key squad members joining the winning side in any scenario is a political conversation neither club will want to have before that fixture is settled.
Barcelona have been mentioned as a third interested party but are widely considered unable to fund the deal at current values, leaving the race effectively as a straight choice between Arsenal and the possibility of remaining in Paris. Arteta’s title win and the club’s growing stature as an attractive destination for elite players makes the Gunners a compelling proposition.
For Barcola, the decision will weigh Champions League involvement, a clear starting role, and personal fit. Arsenal can credibly offer all three.