Arsenal are reportedly exploring alternative options for their left-wing position after Vinicius Jr signed a contract extension with Real Madrid. The club had made a significant bid for Vinicius Jr, with personal terms reportedly close to agreement, but the player ultimately committed his future to Madrid in a deal until 2032.
Following this development, Mikel Arteta‘s side is said to be looking at three main targets to bolster their left flank. Among these is Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, who is also attracting interest from Liverpool. Reports indicate that Liverpool may be further along in negotiations regarding personal terms with Barcola.
However, PSG’s valuation of the France international could present a challenge for Arsenal, as the club has reportedly priced Barcola at £130m. This figure is understood to be above Arsenal’s own valuation for the player.
Alternative Wing Targets for Arsenal
Beyond Barcola, Arsenal has identified other potential acquisitions for the left-wing role. One such player is Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid, who is reportedly admired by Mikel Arteta. Alvarez has also been linked with Barcelona, suggesting he might remain in Spain.
Another player under consideration is Everton‘s Iliman Ndiaye. The Senegal international was previously linked with a move to a Saudi Pro League club earlier in the summer. Ndiaye scored six goals for Everton last year and also found the net against Iraq at this summer’s World Cup.
The pursuit of a wide forward remains a priority for Arsenal, especially as the club is reportedly on the verge of signing Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle. A £75m deal for the central midfielder is expected to reduce the team’s reliance on Declan Rice and contribute to forming a strong midfield in the Premier League.
Transfer Market Activity Across Premier League
The transfer window has seen other significant movements and rumours across the Premier League. Manchester City, for instance, rejected a £38.5m bid from Barcelona for Rodri, indicating they would not let him leave for less than £60m. In light of Rodri’s potential move to Barcelona, Manchester City is reportedly exploring a move for Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
Chelsea itself could see a substantial number of departures before the summer transfer window closes, with reports suggesting up to 15 players might be sold, and 10 potentially moving away from Stamford Bridge on loan. Newcastle is also looking to strengthen its squad, with interest in a left-back and a right-back, and has reportedly checked on 19-year-old Jorge Salinas at Racing Santander, alongside Aston Villa.
In other news, Wrexham has inquired about Ipswich Town‘s Alex Palmer as a potential goalkeeper for the Championship season. Meanwhile, Celta Vigo is confident of securing Couhaib Driouech, ahead of Rangers.
The transfer market continues to be active, with clubs making strategic moves to bolster their squads for the upcoming season. Arsenal’s focus on a new wide forward follows Mikel Arteta’s earlier move to replace Leandro Trossard, who joined Besiktas, with Greek international Christos Tzolis, who has started the last two friendlies for the Gunners.
Source: skysports.com
