Man City edge ahead of Arsenal in race for Barcelona starlet
Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Barcelona youngster Marc Bernal has resurfaced following fresh reports linking the Gunners with another attempt to sign the highly-rated midfielder.
Arsenal were among the clubs monitoring the 19-year-old defensive midfielder’s situation at Barcelona, and new claims suggest that interest has not gone away.
🚨NEW! 💣
Arsenal are making attempts to sign Barcelona’s defensive midfielder Marc Bernal. 🇪🇸 🌟
ℹ️ @espn pic.twitter.com/q0jsJytPFd
— AFC Xtra (@AFC__Xtra) July 24, 2026
Arsenal continue to monitor Bernal
According to AFC Xtra, citing ESPN, Arsenal are making attempts to sign the Barcelona academy graduate as Mikel Arteta continues to explore midfield options during the summer transfer window.
While no formal offer has been confirmed, Arsenal are once again being credited with keeping a close eye on one of Spain’s brightest young prospects.
Bernal is regarded as one of Barcelona’s most exciting emerging talents and has already attracted attention from several of Europe’s biggest clubs thanks to his composure on the ball, defensive intelligence and maturity despite his young age.
Manchester City also enter the picture
Arsenal’s task could become significantly more difficult if another recent report proves accurate.
Transfer journalist Ekrem Konur claims Manchester City view Bernal as an attractive long-term option, particularly as they look towards potentially replacing Rodri in midfield. Chelsea are also said to be monitoring the teenager’s situation.
Konur adds that Bernal remains under contract with Barcelona until 2029 and has a reported €500 million release clause, although such clauses are commonplace in Spain and do not necessarily reflect a player’s realistic transfer value.
🚨#FCBarcelona Manchester City see Marc Bernal as a particularly attractive option to potentially replace Rodri.
📌 The 19-year-old Spanish defensive midfielder has also drawn interest from Chelsea and Arsenal.
💰 His contract runs until 2029 and includes a €500M release… https://t.co/b2sz5Lnf31 pic.twitter.com/Kbd3hE8CdX
— Ekrem KONUR (@Ekremkonur) July 25, 2026
Whether Barcelona would be willing to negotiate a deal remains to be seen, but if the Catalan club were to consider offers, Arsenal would likely face fierce competition for one of Europe’s most promising young midfielders.
Would you like to see Arsenal pursue Marc Bernal this summer, Gooners, or should the club focus on strengthening other areas of the squad? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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