Bradley Barcola drops transfer update as Liverpool alert to double deal

Liverpool's pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola has hit a significant hurdle as the 23-year-old France international provided an update on his future amid transfer speculation. When asked about his next move, Barcola stated: "I am focused on the World Cup what will happen after that I don't know."

The Reds have turned their attention to Barcola after suffering a major blow regarding their pursuit of Yan Diomande, who reportedly preferred a move to PSG rather than accept Liverpool's willingness to pay 86 million for the RB Leipzig defender.

However, securing Barcola from PSG looks increasingly difficult. The French champions are not looking to sell the forward and would value him at a fee in excess of the 116 million that Manchester City are paying to sign Elliot Anderson. Reports suggest that Barcola may be leaning towards a move to Arsenal rather than Liverpool, with the Gunners currently viewed as a more attractive destination. As journalist Lewis Steele suggested: "I do think he probably will end up leaving PSG. He's got a decision to make and he might prefer Arsenal. He's probably looking at Mikel Arteta and he might want to live in the capital city of London."

The journalist added: "It's going to be very very hard for Liverpool to get Barcola."

Despite these setbacks, Liverpool have continued their summer recruitment, having signed Spanish winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna for 34.5 million and defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for approximately 60 million, bringing their spending to close to 100 million.

Barcola has impressed during France's World Cup campaign, scoring against Sweden and providing an assist, further enhancing his stock. Arsenal have also expressed interest in the winger alongside their pursuit of Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers.