Liverpool are reportedly considering Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as an alternative target, with PSG currently in negotiations to sign Yan Diomande. Diomande, an Ivory Coast international, has indicated a preference to join the French club, despite previous interest from Liverpool.
Diomande has been a primary target for Liverpool, but the Premier League side has been unwilling to meet RB Leipzig’s valuation for the player. Leipzig is seeking a significantly higher fee than Liverpool was prepared to pay. This situation appears to have cleared the path for PSG to pursue the winger, with whom they have reportedly agreed a contract until 2031. Club-to-club discussions between PSG and Leipzig are ongoing.
Diomande’s preference for PSG
Sources indicate that Diomande views a move to the French capital as an opportunity to consistently compete for trophies. He reportedly believes in the project led by PSG chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi and football advisor Luis Campos, and wishes to play under head coach Luis Enrique.
The 19-year-old attacker, who can play on either wing, missed only one Bundesliga game last season due to an international call-up. He scored 12 goals and provided nine assists in 33 league matches, contributing to the German side’s third-place finish in the Bundesliga and qualification for the Champions League. Diomande is currently with Ivory Coast at the World Cup and is likely to feature in their round-of-32 match against Norway.
Diomande’s rapid ascent in European football began at Spanish side Leganes. His dribbling ability was evident in subsequent performances against Villarreal and Real Valladolid. After approximately 500 minutes of football, RB Leipzig acquired him, and he has continued to excel as a primary attacking outlet on the flanks for the Bundesliga club.
He has demonstrated his ability to combine quantity and quality in wide play, attempting more dribbles than any other player in the German top flight last season, with a high success rate among wingers across Europe with at least 50 take-on attempts. His quick feet and agile build allow him to move swiftly, while also possessing power in his dribbling, enabling him to maintain forward momentum. This makes him a potent asset on counter-attacks, where his dribbling translates into a smooth shooting action, capable of generating power and accuracy with both feet. Diomande has also adapted to the international stage, scoring three times in 13 appearances for Ivory Coast, including contributions at the Africa Cup of Nations and in helping his country advance from a challenging World Cup group that included Germany and Ecuador.
Barcola’s uncertain future at PSG
Barcola, a 23-year-old winger, is high on Liverpool’s list of alternative options as they plan to replace Mohamed Salah. His future at PSG is uncertain due to frustrations over being overlooked for selection in significant matches, including the Champions League final victory against Arsenal.
Reports suggest Barcola could depart PSG this summer if his dissatisfaction with his situation persists upon his return from the World Cup with France. While PSG ideally wishes to retain him, they will not prevent a move if he desires to leave and a club meets their valuation. Barcola has two years remaining on his contract, which positions this summer as an opportune time for PSG to consider a sale if he declines to extend his deal. Arsenal has also been monitoring Barcola, though their current priority for the left-wing position is reportedly Morgan Rogers at Aston Villa.
Liverpool has already secured the signing of winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna.
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Source: skysports.com
