Transfer news LIVE: Liverpool face new Barcola hurdle despite agreement as Vinicius Jr makes Arsenal decision

The surprising pursuit of several players in their 30s this summer shows Chelsea have learnt lessons from a calamitous season dogged by inexperienced and ill-discipline – but will it fix the problem?

Danny Welbeck has been granted permission to finalise his move to Chelsea and the 35-year-old striker is set to undergo a medical at Stamford Bridge.

Welbeck emerged as a shock target for Chelsea as they aim to add experience to Xabi Alonso’s squad. He is set to sign a two-year deal after scoring 13 Premier League goals last season.

Arsenal will have to turn to other transfer targets after it was reported by Sky Sports that Real Madrid do not want to sell Vinicius Jr this summer.

Real Madrid are reportedly confident that the Brazil winger, who emerged as a shock target for the Gunners as they aim to strengthen their attack, will agree a new contract after entering the final year of his deal.

AS also reported that Vinicius, who is out of contract in 2027, will resume talks on a new deal once he returns from his summer holiday.

Real Madrid’s agreement to sign RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande also added to the speculation – but the club want Vinicius to extend his deal, too.

Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola has agreed to join Liverpool, according to a report in the French sports daily L’Equipe.

It is undoubtedly a boost to Liverpool ahead of potentially facing competition from Premier League rivals Arsenal for the France international, but a deal remains some way off.

That’s because PSG have set a price tag of £140m on the 23-year-old, and do not want to sell – especially as Real Madrid look likely to sign RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande.

As previously reported, PSG are using the Morgan Rogers and Elliot Anderson deals as a benchmark, while Barcola remains under contract with the European champions.

When asked about his targets this summer, Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola said a wide player was top of his list.