With the football season now concluded, Arsenal faces what could be their most pivotal summer transfer window in recent years.
Mikel Arteta has undoubtedly overseen a significant transformation of the team since taking charge in 2019. However, securing a third consecutive Premier League runners-up finish this year underscores a clear urgency for the North London club to clinch a major trophy next season.
While maintaining the fitness of key players is vital for achieving this goal, securing the right, impactful signings over the coming weeks and months is arguably just as, if not more, crucial for new Sporting Director Andrea Berta and the club`s board.
Fortuitously, it appears the club may be on the path to doing just that, as recent reports have linked them with a move for one of Europe`s most promising wingers, a player who could represent a significant upgrade on Gabriel Martinelli.
Arsenal`s Winger Search
Before delving into the specific star attracting attention, it`s worth acknowledging other wide talents who have been strongly linked with Arsenal in recent times, such as Nico Williams and Rayan Cherki.
Williams reportedly has a release clause of around £50m in his Athletic Bilbao contract. While a substantial sum, it could be seen as well worth the investment for the 22-year-old, who registered 11 goals and seven assists in 45 appearances this season.
Cherki, by comparison, boasted an even more impressive record, contributing a remarkable 12 goals and 20 assists in just 44 games, making his rumoured £30m price tag seem like potential value.
However, it now appears that the Gunners are showing serious interest in another highly-rated talent from Ligue 1: Bradley Barcola.
According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal is among several Premier League clubs keeping a close eye on the Paris Saint-Germain star.
The report indicates that scouts from Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur have also been monitoring the young Frenchman.
Although sources suggest PSG has no current plans to sell the 22-year-old, those close to the club reportedly value him at up to €120m, approximately £101m.
Securing his transfer would undoubtedly be a complex and costly undertaking. However, given Barcola`s exceptional talent and immense potential, Arsenal should make every effort to sign him, particularly as he represents a significant upgrade over Martinelli.
Barcola Compared to Martinelli
Firstly, it`s important to note that while Barcola has played on the right flank and even featured as a forward, his most natural and frequently played position is left-wing.
Therefore, if he were to join Arsenal, he would likely operate in this role, putting him in direct competition with Martinelli for playing time. How do their performances stack up?
In terms of raw statistical output, the difference is quite apparent.
Barcola, described as having `devastating pace` by U23 scout Antonio Mango, has accumulated 21 goals and 19 assists across 58 appearances this season, totaling 3643 minutes. This equates to an impressive average of a goal involvement every 1.45 games, or approximately every 91 minutes.
In contrast, Arsenal`s number 11 recorded ten goals and six assists in 51 appearances, totaling 3564 minutes. This results in a considerably less impactful average of a goal involvement every 3.18 games, or roughly every 223 minutes.
