Transfer round-up: Liverpool closing in on Barcola as Vini Jr to Arsenal deal hit a snag
By Luke Oluoch, July 29, 2026Liverpool FC and Arsenal are leading the headlines in the latest English Premier League transfer news as of Wednesday, July 29, 2026.
Liverpool eye Barcola as Salah’s successor
After missing out on key targets, Liverpool are closing in on PSG winger Bradley Barcola, according to BBC Sport.
The French winger has reportedly reached a verbal agreement on personal terms with the Reds, though the two clubs have yet to finalise a transfer fee.
L’Équipe reports that a significant gap in valuation remains between PSG and Liverpool, leaving the deal in the balance.
Liverpool’s move for Barcola comes after they pulled out of the race for attacker Yan Diomande due to RB Leipzig’s steep asking price.
The Reds remain active in the transfer market as they search for a high-profile replacement for Mohamed Salah, who departed at the end of last season.
Real Madrid to keep Vinicius Jr
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s ambitious pursuit of Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has hit a snag. The Spanish giants have no intention of selling the 26-year-old Brazilian international, despite his contract expiring next summer.
According to Sky Sports, Los Blancos remain confident that the Seleção forward will sign a contract extension.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta had identified Vinicius Jr as a crucial addition to his ongoing squad overhaul alongside midfielder Bruno Guimarães. The forward boasts an impressive resume, boasting 128 goals and 100 assists for Real Madrid, in addition to scoring 4 goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
United in talks for Ndiaye and Zirkzee exit
Elsewhere, Manchester United have received a clear signal in their pursuit of Senegal winger Iliman Ndiaye. Everton have set their asking price for the 26-year-old at Ksh12.03 billion.
To fund potential incoming transfers, Manchester United are open to offloading Dutch striker Joshua Zirkzee and are actively holding talks with Juventus over a potential move for the 25-year-old.
Elsewhere, Chelsea are also working to finalise a deal to sign Danny Welbeck from Brighton. Chelsea are looking to lure the talented striker to the Bridge to add experience to their forward line.