Arsenal could be handed a clear run at one of their major attacking targets after Liverpool reportedly prepare to walk away from talks for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.
Liverpool have been negotiating with PSG over a deal for the France international, but the two clubs remain some way apart in their valuation of the player.
According to the Evening Standard, PSG are demanding around £145million for Barcola, a figure Liverpool are currently unwilling to match.
The French winger has reportedly been keen on the move as he looks for increased opportunities, but PSG are standing firm on their asking price.
With negotiations approaching a stalemate, Liverpool are now prepared to abandon their pursuit and turn their attention towards alternative targets.
That could be significant news for Arsenal.
The Gunners remain interested in Barcola as they look to add another elite attacking option before the transfer window closes.
Arsenal had identified the 23-year-old as a potential target even before missing out on Vinicius Junior, who opted to remain at Real Madrid and sign a new long-term contract.
Mikel Arteta has already added Christos Tzolis to his attacking options this summer, but Arsenal are still believed to be monitoring the market for another forward.
Barcola could therefore emerge as a particularly attractive opportunity if Liverpool officially withdraw from the race.
The Frenchman has established himself as one of PSG’s most dangerous attacking players and has also become a regular for the France national team.
However, any move would still require Arsenal to meet PSG’s huge valuation.
The Gunners have already spent heavily this summer, including around £75million on Bruno Guimaraes, but Arteta has made it clear that further additions remain possible if the right player becomes available.
“Well, that’s what we’re trying to do,” Arteta said when asked about further signings.
“If we have the right player in the market to make us much better, we are very looking forward to that.”
Arsenal’s interest in Barcola could now become one of the stories to watch closely as the transfer window enters its final weeks.
Liverpool walking away would remove one of the biggest obstacles to a potential deal, leaving Arsenal with an opportunity to make their move.
Whether the Gunners are prepared to meet PSG’s £145million demands remains unclear, but the situation has suddenly become much more interesting for Arsenal.