Arsenal were dealt a massive setback after Chelsea hijacked their move for Aston Villa attacker Morgan Rogers.
The English attacking ace had been the Gunners' top target this summer and there was belief that he'd arrive at the Emirates. As Mikel Arteta's transfer chiefs prepared to step up their interest, their London rivals stole in and agreed on a British transfer record £117 million fee.
Rogers is now headed to Stamford Bridge, and Arteta has headed back to the drawing board to find an alternative. There have been several names linked with the Premier League champions, including in-demand Yan Diomande.
Arsenal Learn Diomande Stance
RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande celebrates a goalREUTERS/Annegret Hilse
Fabrizio Romano confirmed just days ago that Arsenal had moved to hijack Paris Saint-Germain's deal to sign Diomande. The Ivorian had been Liverpool's top candidate to replace Mohammed Salah, but he made it clear he preferred a move to PSG.
The Gunners' attempt to convince him to snub the Parisians and join Arteta's side has reportedly failed. A report from TEAMtalk claims that his entourage have informed other suitors that he is committed to joining Luis Enrique's European champions.
Liverpool and Manchester City have also made fresh approaches for the 19-year-old as PSG take their time agreeing a fee with RB Leipzig. They, too, have been told that the player is firmly set on a move to the Parc des Princes.
Diomande has been on the North Londoners' radar throughout the summer, and they reignited their interest after missing out on Rogers. He is one of Europe's most highly rated wingers and is tipped to become a superstar.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
Arsenal Must Go All In On Barcola
Bradley Barcola (France) celebrates after scoring vs EnglandPaul Childs via Reuters
With Diomande holding out for a move to PSG, Arsenal are not going to have any joy trying to enter a bidding war with the French giants. They could, however, benefit from the Ivorian making the switch to the Parc des Princes.
Bradley Barcola is on Arteta's wishlist, and his future is unclear amid the expectation that Diomande joins the Ligue 1 club. Should that happen, it could be an opportune time for the Gunners to swoop for the French winger.
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At just 23, Barcola is another one of Europe's brightest attackers, and he enjoyed an impressive World Cup campaign with France. All the focus should now be on signing the former Lyon man, with Diomande firmly ruled out.