Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has refused to rule out a move for Bradley Barcola amid interest from Liverpool and Arsenal this summer. The 23-year-old winger, who has been instrumental in PSG’s success since joining from Lyon in 2023, has 39 goals and 37 assists in 152 appearances for the French giants, helping the club clinch 13 trophies, including three consecutive Ligue 1 titles and back-to-back Champions League crowns. However, Barcola’s future has been the subject of intense speculation, with the forward out of contract in 2028 and refusing to commit to an extension.
Al-Khelaifi’s comments on Barcola’s future
Speaking after PSG’s UEFA Super Cup victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday evening, Al-Khelaifi said: ‘We’re working calmly. We don’t talk too much. We get things done. All of our players are important. When they sign for PSG, they become important to us.’ When pressed on whether Barcola will leave, he replied: ‘I can’t say today. What I can say today is that he’s a PSG player.’ He confirmed talks were in place but provided no further clarity, adding: ‘There are discussions, negotiations, we’ll see.’
Liverpool and Arsenal’s interest
Liverpool, led by new head coach Andoni Iraola, have identified Barcola as their top target to replace Mohamed Salah, who departed for Trabzonspor. Premier League champions Arsenal have also been monitoring developments, forced to consider alternatives after their six-month pursuit of Vinicius Junior ended in failure. PSG have reportedly set an eye-watering £145million price tag on Barcola, and there is a distinct possibility that the two English heavyweights will be priced out unless these demands are relaxed significantly.
Barcola’s recent form and World Cup
Barcola was an unused substitute in the Super Cup victory but was pictured celebrating with the trophy. He is still working his way back to full fitness after a gruelling World Cup with France, which ended in disappointment as Didier Deschamps’ men were beaten in the semi-finals by eventual champions Spain. He featured in all eight of Les Bleus’ contests, scoring against Senegal, Sweden, and England in the bronze-medal match.
With the transfer window still open, the situation remains fluid. PSG’s stance, combined with Barcola’s contract situation, will likely determine whether Liverpool or Arsenal can secure his signature before the deadline.
