Chelsea and Manchester City are reportedly keen to sign Lyon winger Bradley Barcola as the two Premier League giants battle it out for his signature.
But who is the 20-year-old speedstar? Here is all you need to know.
Who is Barcola?
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Barcola was born in was born in France in September 2002 and started playing for Lyon's reserve team in Ligue 2 during the 2020/21 campaign.
He was later called up to Lyon's first team by Peter Bosz during the 2021/22 pre-season—scoring his first goal against Bourg-en-Bresse.
Barcola signed his first professional contract in September 2021, putting pen to paper on a three-year-deal.
How did he play last season?
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Barcola enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1 last term and finished the season with an impressive nine assists to his name, more than any other teammate.
While he netted a further seven goals in all competitions.
On average, Barcola was the fastest 20-year-old player across Europe’s Top 5 leagues last season, according to SkillCorner.
What is the latest?
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RMC Sport journalist Fabrice Hawkins confirmed that Chelsea had "accelerated" their efforts to sign Barcola, tweeting: "Chelsea have accelerated for Bradley Barcola in the last few hours, no final green light from the player yet."
Lyon reportedly already refused an offer of €35m from Paris Saint-Germain, meaning Chelsea would likely need to pay more to land the winger.
Barcola has also been tipped as a potential replacement for Riyad Mahrez at Manchester City, claim 90min, and shares the same agent as a number of first team stars including Ederson, Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo and Bernardo Silva, as per Transfermarkt.
What's been said about him?
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Barcola has been called an “elite” player by talent scout Jacek Kulig, who claims he has the versatility to operate everywhere across the frontline and even on the left side of the midfield.
Featured Image Credit: GettyTopics: Chelsea, Manchester City, Premier League, Football, Transfers