Bradley Barcola targeted by Arsenal as Mikel Arteta eyes elite upgrade

Bradley Barcola is the latest name to emerge in Arsenal’s summer transfer crosshairs.

What’s happening with Bradley Barcola?

European football expert Andy Brassell told talkSPORT that Barcola would be a “huge upgrade” on Gabriel Martinelli if Arsenal land the 23-year-old PSG winger this summer. Brassell called Barcola the type of player the Gunners should target as they look to strengthen their attack after a brilliant season under Mikel Arteta.

Barcola still has two years left on his Paris Saint-Germain contract. Reports in France claim PSG would be open to a summer sale if contract talks stall. The European champions have already shown flexibility with big names in the past.

Why Arsenal want Bradley Barcola

Arsenal have a long history with French players. Under Arsène Wenger, the club signed Nicolas Anelka, Thierry Henry, Robert Pires, Samir Nasri, Laurent Koscielny, William Gallas and Patrick Vieira. Arteta has yet to bring in a French player since taking charge.

Brassell argued that Arsenal excel at transforming already-good players into elite stars. He sees Barcola as a prime candidate. The 23-year-old has been at the top level for a long time but has struggled for minutes at PSG since Khvicha Kvaratskhelia arrived.

Barcola started well at PSG but now often comes off the bench. He still managed to score for France in the World Cup opener against Senegal on 21 Nov 2025. Brassell believes Barcola’s pace and intelligence make him a perfect fit for Arsenal’s system.

How Barcola compares to Gabriel Martinelli

Brassell said Barcola would be a “huge upgrade” over Martinelli. He pointed to Barcola’s ability to release the ball at the right moment and use his speed effectively. The expert also highlighted Barcola’s international experience with France.

Arsenal are weighing several options in attack this summer. Morgan Rogers, Julián Álvarez and Christos Tzolis are also strongly linked. Arteta wants to add quality before the new season kicks off.

What comes next for Bradley Barcola?

Barcola’s contract talks with PSG remain unsettled. If no new deal is reached, the club could sell him this summer. Arsenal are ready to move if the price is right and the player fits their style.

The Gunners have already shown they can improve French talent. Barcola could be next in line to prove Brassell’s theory: that Arteta’s side can turn a good player into an elite one.