Liverpool's transfer window has activity has cranked up with just three weeks left until the deadline passes
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 14: France's Bradley Barcola during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between France and Spain at Dallas Stadium on July 14, 2026 in Arlington, United States. (Photo by Rob Newell - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Bradley Barcola is attracting a lot of interest this summer(Image: Rob Newell - CameraSport, CameraSport via Getty Images)
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Liverpool's summer transfer window activity hasn't been as thriving as many fans would've liked this summer. However, the weekend brought reinforcements to their backline following a string of injuries that left Virgil van Dijk as their sole available senior centre-back.
Ronald Araujo, the Barcelona club captain, is arriving on a season-long loan to alleviate Andoni Iraola's defensive concerns. Focus now shifts back to the Reds' forward line.
Following a week in which former winger Mohamed Salah completed his move to Turkish outfit Trabzonspor, the urgency for attacking additions is intensifying. Today's developments see Liverpool confronted with a concerning update regarding their pursuit of PSG winger Bradley Barcola, while a current Reds forward continues to attract attention from a Premier League rival.
Arsenal move for Barcola
After it emerged Arsenal are preparing to launch a bid for Barcola this summer, via The Independent, a subsequent report from TEAMtalk claims they've contacted his camp. Liverpool had reportedly identified the French star as their top priority this summer but may now encounter stiff competition for his services.
The Premier League champions had switched their attention towards a blockbuster swoop for Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr, as they seek to strengthen their own attacking options, but he has committed his future to the Spanish giants with a new contract.
Bradley Barcola is an Arsenal transfer alternative to Vinicius Jr
Bradley Barcola is an Arsenal transfer alternative to Vinicius Jr(Image: (Photo by Nicolò Campo/LightRocket via Getty Images))
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PSG's stance on Barcola's valuation, though, could present a significant hurdle for both clubs. The winger is believed to be priced at approximately £145million, although certain sources have suggested the fee is fixed nearer to £128m.
Arsenal are thought to have had a longstanding interest in Barcola as they seek to strengthen their left flank. However, at present, Liverpool hold the advantage, having made headway in talks with both PSG and the player's camp.
Barcola is also understood to be eager to link up with the Reds. Yet, with no agreement on a transfer fee reached thus far, the clock may be ticking, with Arsenal prepared to commit significant funds to sign Liverpool's long-term target.
Spurs learn Gakpo stance
Liverpool are unwilling to sanction a departure for Cody Gakpo unless they bring in two forwards to replace him, according to talkSPORT. An update on Spurs' pursuit of the Dutch attacker suggested the north London club are serious about landing the Premier League title-winner.
Spurs have reportedly been informed that £70m could be sufficient to get a deal for Gakpo across the line. According to the report, Liverpool's current position regarding the player they recruited in January 2023 is to hold on to him, unless they are able to bring in new additions in that position, putting pay to any deal for now.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MAY 24: Cody Gakpo of Liverpool looks on during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brentford at Anfield on May 24, 2026 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Cody Gakpo has been linked with Spurs(Image: Liverpool FC, Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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Any progress on a potential transfer would only materialise late in the window, and with the deadline falling on September 1, time may not be on Spurs' side.
The outlet even suggested that sources have described Spurs' pursuit of Gakpo as a "fool's errand," given Liverpool's present reluctance to allow him to leave Anfield.