Arsenal Targets Bradley Barcola as Cole Urges More Attacking Depth

Arsenal have stepped into the race for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, with former striker Carlton Cole insisting the Frenchman is exactly the profile Mikel Arteta still lacks on the left.

Barcola wants out of PSG and the French champions are ready to cash in at the right price, looking to recycle the fee back into their own rebuild. That stance has sparked interest across Europe, with Liverpool currently pushing hardest for his signature.

They have not got it over the line yet. That hesitation keeps the door ajar for Arsenal.

Liverpool lead, but Arsenal lurk

Liverpool’s interest has been the most concrete in recent weeks and they are well placed to close a deal. Yet no agreement is in place, and the clock is ticking towards the end of the window.

Arsenal are watching closely. Their move is likely to hinge on outgoings, with Gabriel Martinelli’s future key. If the Brazilian is sold, the London club are expected to accelerate talks for Barcola, who would slot naturally into that left-sided role.

He would not arrive as a project. The winger has already collected back-to-back Champions League titles in Paris, experience that would instantly raise the competitive edge inside the Emirates dressing room.

Cole, speaking to the Metro, made it clear he feels Arsenal still have work to do before the window shuts.

“Bruno Guimaraes has come in, he's a brilliant player, and I still think they probably want one more signing before the window shuts. I know they're still trying to do a little bit of business. I think they need another left-sided forward, they're obvious in the running to sign Barcola; they need someone like that.”

Cole’s message: don’t stop now

Cole’s verdict is blunt: Arsenal’s squad build is not finished. He believes a left-sided forward remains a missing piece and sees Barcola as the type of signing who can complete Arteta’s attacking puzzle.

Barcola would offer another direct, high-quality option on the flank, adding depth and variety to a frontline that has already been reinforced this summer. His pace and technical ability, sharpened at PSG, make him an appealing fit for a side that wants to dominate games and sustain pressure.

Arsenal have already moved decisively in this window, but the chance to add a Champions League winner in his early prime is the kind of opportunity elite clubs rarely ignore.

Liverpool, though, are still in the box seat. Their continued talks keep them firmly in contention, yet every day without a breakthrough invites Arsenal to test PSG’s resolve and the player’s preference.

If PSG do sanction Barcola’s exit before the deadline, the battle between Liverpool and Arsenal for a proven young winner could say plenty about which project carries the greater pull right now.