Arsenal are stepping up their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola as Mikel Arteta’s side search for new attacking reinforcements this summer.
The Gunners have received encouragement from their recruitment team that the 23-year-old could be available, according to the BBC, prompting increased interest from the club.
Arsenal scouts attended France’s World Cup last-32 tie against Sweden on Tuesday night, taking a closer look at the PSG forward in a competitive setting.
The timing of that scouting trip proved to be perfect, as Barcola scored in France’s convincing 3-0 victory over Sweden.
His pace, movement and composed finish stood out during the match, with The Guardian noting his goal came after sharp movement and a composed strike.
The scouting report will have only strengthened Arsenal’s belief that Barcola is capable of fitting into Arteta’s demanding attacking system.
Arsenal still hold a strong interest in Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, who has been one of their primary attacking targets heading into the summer window.
However, Villa’s valuation of the England forward presents a significant obstacle, with recent reports claiming the club value Rogers at around £130m.
TalkSPORT has highlighted how that asking price could become a major stumbling block for any potential deal between the two Premier League clubs.
That financial reality is precisely what makes Barcola such an attractive option, as PSG appear more open to negotiating a sale of the French international.
While Rogers is regarded as a more powerful player capable of operating centrally, Barcola offers greater directness in wide areas and stronger one-versus-one ability.
Arsenal need more unpredictability in their attack, particularly to reduce the heavy reliance on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli in wide positions.
At 23 years old, Barcola already carries considerable experience at both PSG and international level with France, giving him a strong profile for a major move.
Arteta’s side may view Barcola as better value for money if Villa refuse to lower their demands, even though a PSG deal would not come cheaply.
With the summer transfer market growing increasingly competitive, Arsenal’s World Cup scouting mission suggests this pursuit could be ready to move into a more serious phase very soon.
