Liverpool are reportedly preparing to open discussions with Paris Saint-Germain regarding a potential transfer for winger Bradley Barcola. Following initial talks with the player’s representatives, Liverpool has reportedly prepared an opening offer and is set to formalise its interest with an official approach.
Acquiring a winger has been identified as a key priority for Liverpool, particularly since the departure of Mohamed Salah. Barcola has been on Liverpool’s radar for several years, and the opportunity to join the club is said to appeal to the player.
Valuation and Contract Status
The 23-year-old forward has two years remaining on his contract with PSG. Reports suggest he has indicated he will not sign a new deal, citing frustrations over a perceived lack of game time in significant matches. This situation could make him available for a transfer.
PSG has set a valuation for Barcola in the region of £145m, which, if met, would constitute a British record transfer fee. However, other sources indicate the valuation could be around £128.5m (€150m). The success of Andoni Iraola’s teams, known for their reliance on wingers with pace, energy, and work-rate, suggests Barcola could be a crucial addition to his new Liverpool squad.
The key to advancing any deal will depend on PSG’s willingness to adjust their asking price for the player, who they acquired for approximately £40m in 2023. Valuations for top-tier players have been notably high this summer.
Arsenal also holds an interest in Barcola. The club has been monitoring the situation of Vinicius Jr, who has one year left on his contract with Real Madrid, but the Spanish club intends to keep him and is confident of a new agreement. Arsenal’s strategy involves pursuing multiple targets simultaneously, and Barcola is among the players they are considering.
Player Profile and Achievements
Barcola’s potential transfer is generating significant attention, with both Liverpool and Arsenal reportedly pursuing the Paris Saint-Germain forward. He has achieved considerable success, including winning nine major trophies in the last two years, which includes two Champions League titles. Despite these achievements, he has often featured from the bench in the Champions League finals.
The arrival of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia from Napoli in January 2025 established him as the primary choice on the left wing for PSG, which has reportedly contributed to Barcola’s frustrations regarding playing time. However, his status as a non-guaranteed starter in Paris does not diminish his potential as a star player.
He is described as a player possessing pace, physicality, and intelligence, with skills developed under coach Luis Enrique. His potential is considered to be as substantial as the reported transfer fee.
Despite the interest, some opinions suggest Barcola may not be the ideal replacement for Mohamed Salah at Anfield. Concerns have been raised about Liverpool’s existing options on the left wing, including Rio Ngumoha, Cody Gakpo, and Florian Wirtz, while a need for a right-sided winger has been highlighted.
Liverpool has already made several signings this summer, including the versatile forward Víctor Muñoz from Osasuna and Jérémy Jacquet from Rennes for an initial £55m. However, the club continues to seek further reinforcements in both attack and defence, with Iraola reportedly concerned about defensive options.
Source: skysports.com
