Arsenal Turn to Barcola After Vinicius Snub, With Liverpool Hijack in Their Sights

Arsenal are back in the market for a winger after Vinicius Junior decided to stay at Real Madrid, and the search could now put them on a collision course with Liverpool. The Gunners had been ready to push hard for the 26-year-old Brazil international and made him a strong offer, with Mikel Arteta explaining the role he would play in the team. But Vinicius, whose contract was due to expire next year, never seriously considered leaving the Spanish capital. He has now accepted Real Madrid's renewal proposal, ending any chance of a summer exit. That outcome forces Arsenal to look elsewhere. Everton winger Iliman Ndiaye is one name under consideration, while the Gunners could also revisit an earlier target. PSG's Bradley Barcola is now in the picture. Arsenal were strongly linked with the 23-year-old earlier in the window, but their focus on Vinicius allowed Liverpool to move ahead. Barcola is reportedly keen on a move to Merseyside, although the Reds have not yet agreed a deal with PSG. Paris initially had no intention of letting Barcola leave, and their stance has only softened slightly. Reports claim they want more than €150 million, with some sources putting the price as high as €170m. The arrival of Maghnes Akliouche from Monaco has not changed their valuation. Liverpool are reluctant to meet those demands, which could open the door for Arsenal. The Gunners were ready to pay a Premier League-record fee for Vinicius, but Barcola is not regarded as being on the same level as the Brazilian. PSG's valuation also differs from Arsenal's, so any move would likely involve difficult negotiations. Arsenal's interest is genuine, and Barcola is seen as an attractive option, but they are playing catch-up. Liverpool remain the favorites, as PSG insider Loic Tanzi confirmed this week. With no breakthrough in club-to-club talks yet, Arsenal still have a chance to overtake their Premier League rivals.