Liverpool are reportedly considering ending discussions for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, potentially opening a path for Arsenal to pursue the player. Reports indicate that an agreement between Liverpool and PSG is not close, with the French club seeking a substantial fee for Barcola.
Despite Liverpool having reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with Barcola, talks with PSG regarding a transfer fee have encountered difficulties. The European champions are said to be demanding £145m for the winger.
Transfer Market Movements
With the transfer deadline approaching in three weeks, Liverpool are reportedly prepared to withdraw from negotiations for Barcola. The club may instead focus on other targets to strengthen Andoni Iraola‘s squad. Among the alternative players being considered is Barcola’s PSG teammate, Ibrahim Mbaye, an 18-year-old.
Liverpool’s potential withdrawal from talks could alert Arsenal, who are also said to be interested in the French player. Arsenal are reportedly monitoring the situation, waiting to see if Liverpool abandon their pursuit, which would clear the way for the Gunners to make a bid.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has indicated that the club is looking to make further signings this summer. He confirmed that they are actively seeking the right player in the market to improve the squad.
Arsenal recently signed Bruno Guimaraes and have also added Christos Tzolis to their left flank. Arteta is now thought to be targeting forwards to further bolster his team.
Meanwhile, Manchester City midfielder Rodri could be set to leave the club, with interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid. The World Cup-winning captain is in the final year of his contract and reportedly favours a move to Barcelona. City are said to be preparing for this potential departure and are nearing a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille.
In other transfer news, Everton and Crystal Palace have completed a swap deal involving wingers Brennan Johnson and Dwight McNeil. Johnson departs Palace, while McNeil moves to Palace.
Brazilian player Endrick is expected to remain at Real Madrid this season, despite interest from European clubs for a loan move. Aston Villa had reportedly shown interest in the player, who spent the latter half of last season at Lyon.
Player Updates and Injuries
Florian Wirtz, a significant signing for Liverpool last summer, faces a crucial second season. The focus is on how Andoni Iraola can help him perform at his best after his initial outings for the club.
Kalvin Phillips is reportedly set to rejoin Sheffield United on loan, marking his fourth loan move from Manchester City. The England international midfielder, who has two years remaining on his contract at the Etihad Stadium, has not featured in the Premier League for City since 2023. He previously joined Sheffield United for the second half of last season but made only three appearances before a red card and a knee injury ended his involvement.
Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle is addressing the departure of key players, including Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, and captain Bruno Guimaraes. Jaissle, who joined from Al-Ahli after Eddie Howe‘s departure last month, views the situation as a challenge but also an opportunity for the club.
Barcelona winger Roony Bardghji will require surgery after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. The club confirmed the injury and stated that Bardghji will undergo surgery in the coming days, though a recovery timeline has not been provided. Barcelona had reportedly been in negotiations to loan out the Swedish player.
Everton player Iliman Ndiaye has reportedly declined a move to Saudi side Al-Hilal, opting to remain with his Premier League club. Additionally, Brentford goalkeeper Julian Eyestone, 20, has joined Rotherham on a season-long loan.
Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca has indicated that Erling Haaland is unlikely to become captain. Maresca explained that his rule for captains, which involves coming to the bench for instructions after scoring, would be problematic for a prolific scorer like Haaland. He noted that City currently has three or four captains, with one, Rodri, recovering from back surgery.
Source: standard.co.uk