Liverpool prioritises Bradley Barcola amid PSG’s valuation and other transfer movements

Football gossip: Barcola, Vinicius Jr, Guimaraes, Savinho, Diomande, Salah
Football gossip: Barcola, Vinicius Jr, Guimaraes, Savinho, Diomande, Salah

Liverpool is reportedly prioritising a move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, with the player said to be open to the transfer. This development comes as Liverpool seeks to reinforce its attacking options, particularly following the departure of Mohamed Salah. However, securing Barcola may prove challenging due to PSG’s valuation of the 23-year-old.

According to reports, Fabrizio Romano has indicated that Barcola has given priority to Liverpool’s project if a deal can be finalised with PSG. Liverpool has been leading the race for Barcola since April and is actively working on the transfer. The club is currently awaiting indications from PSG regarding the price and specific details of a potential agreement.

PSG is reportedly demanding a substantial fee for Barcola, with some sources suggesting a valuation of €170m. This figure is influenced by Barcola’s achievements, including back-to-back Champions League and Ligue 1 titles, a strong performance in the World Cup, and his age. Despite the high asking price, PSG is prepared to sell, especially if the player expresses a desire to leave, as manager Luis Enrique has stated he only wants players committed to the club.

Barcola’s Impact and Potential Availability

Barcola has garnered significant attention after several impactful seasons with PSG. His talent is well-recognised, and Liverpool’s admiration for the French forward is evident. He has been instrumental in PSG’s recent successes, contributing 50 goal involvements across the past two campaigns. His speed, dribbling ability, and eye for goal make him a versatile modern winger, capable of cutting inside or delivering crosses.

The 23-year-old has operated effectively as both a starter and an impact substitute for PSG, demonstrating a willingness to contribute defensively by tracking back. This comprehensive skill set makes him a suitable fit for Liverpool’s high-intensity approach under new manager Andoni Iraola. Iraola has openly stated the need for a new winger, particularly after the club’s 2025–26 campaign highlighted a need for greater quality in wide forward positions.

Barcola’s availability, however, is not guaranteed. While PSG is currently reluctant to let him go, the situation could change. PSG is reportedly interested in signing RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande and Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, both of whom are also targets for Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester City. If PSG acquires one or both of these players, Barcola’s playing time could be further limited, potentially prompting him to seek a move for a more prominent role elsewhere.

Liverpool’s Attacking Reinforcements and Other Transfer News

Liverpool has already begun addressing their need for attacking depth, having signed 23-year-old Victor Muñoz for $46 million. However, the club still requires an established star winger, especially with Mohamed Salah’s departure. Salah, 34, is a free agent after leaving Liverpool, and Besiktas is awaiting his decision after submitting a final offer. Reports suggest Salah is nearing a move to the Turkish side.

Beyond Barcola, other transfer discussions are unfolding across European football. Arsenal is reportedly looking to accelerate talks for Newcastle’s 28-year-old Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. Guimaraes has indicated he wants his future resolved before returning for Newcastle’s pre-season training camp. Meanwhile, Real Madrid has set a price of 160m euros (£137m) for 26-year-old Brazil forward Vinicius Jr, despite Arsenal’s reported interest and willingness to offer him a significant contract. Vinicius’ priority, however, is to sign a new deal with Real Madrid, where he has one year remaining on his current contract.

In other news, Tottenham is considered a favourite to sign 22-year-old Brazil winger Savinho from Manchester City. Real Madrid has also reportedly agreed personal terms with 19-year-old Ivory Coast winger Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig. Al-Hilal has opened talks to sign 26-year-old Senegal winger Iliman Ndiaye from Everton. Chelsea is expected to demand a significant fee for 26-year-old Portugal winger Pedro Neto, with Liverpool, Manchester City, and Saudi Arabian teams showing interest. Bournemouth is not looking to sell 20-year-old French striker Junior Kroupi despite interest from Barcelona. Fulham is a leading option for 18-year-old Argentina midfielder Franco Mastantuono if Real Madrid loans him out next season. Juventus is working on a deal to sign 25-year-old Netherlands forward Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United, and 31-year-old Portugal midfielder Joao Palhinha wants to fight for his place at Bayern Munich, though the club is looking to sell him.

Nasser Al-Khelaifi, along with Luis Campos, will be directly involved in any potential exit talks for Barcola.

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Source: bbc.co.uk