Arsenal have decided to pursue a move for Vinicius Junior ahead of Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, according to reports. The Premier League champions are looking to strengthen the left side of Mikel Arteta’s attack following the £15.3 million sale of Leandro Trossard to Besiktas.
Arsenal's Transfer Priorities
Arsenal have included Barcola on their shortlist but according to The Athletic, the Gunners are prioritising a move for Vinicius Jr instead of the France international. The report claims that Barcola is Liverpool’s ‘top target’, however, PSG are demanding a €170 million (£145m) transfer fee for the 23-year-old.
Barcola's Recent Performance
Barcola was a regular for PSG last season and scored 13 goals in all competitions as Luis Enrique’s side won Ligue 1 and the Champions League. But he was dropped for the Champions League final against Arsenal with Luis Enrique preferring to start Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in attack.
Vinicius Jr's Contract Situation
Arsenal, meanwhile, are exploring the possibility of signing Vinicius Jr as he has just one year left on his contract with Madrid. The Spanish club may also look to offload the Brazil international this summer as they are aiming to complete a deal to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig. Madrid’s opening offer of €100m (£85.4m) has been rejected by the Bundesliga side.
Liverpool's Interest
Liverpool have also been offered the chance to sign Vinicius Jr before the end of the summer transfer window but have chosen to work on alternative targets. Reports in Spain this week have claimed that Vinicius Jr wants his future resolved this summer and does not want to leave Madrid on a free transfer next year.
