Arsenal are stepping up their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, with the club planning to submit a formal bid in the coming weeks.
According to The Independent, the Gunners remain firmly interested in the 23-year-old Frenchman as Mikel Arteta looks to reshape his attack ahead of next season.
Barcola registered 13 goals and seven assists last season for PSG, playing a key role as the Parisian club won back-to-back Champions League titles.
Liverpool have also been linked with the French international, making the competition for his signature a serious one between two of England’s biggest clubs.
However, Arsenal believe they have an opportunity to move quickly, with Liverpool’s attention currently occupied by their pursuit of Yan Diomande.
Barcola is valued at £60 million on Transfermarkt, though his actual asking price from PSG is yet to be officially confirmed by either club.
The winger is reportedly open to leaving PSG this summer, with regular first-team football understood to be a key factor in his decision-making process.
Barcola is currently representing France at the World Cup and wasted no time making an impact, scoring in his first appearance of the tournament against Senegal.
His performances at club level have showcased a player with sharp dribbling ability, natural pace, and markedly improved composure and finishing in front of goal.
Arteta is known to value tactical flexibility in his attacking options, and Barcola’s ability to operate across PSG’s offensive trident makes him an attractive proposition for the Arsenal manager.
If Arsenal can move decisively before Liverpool refocus their attention, securing Barcola this summer could represent one of the most exciting attacking signings of the transfer window.
With the World Cup still ongoing, a formal transfer agreement may take several more weeks to materialise, but Arsenal appear intent on making their move sooner rather than later.