Bradley Barcola Set to Take a ‘Special’ Shirt Number at Liverpool With a Personal Story Behind It
Bradley Barcola could take a very meaningful shirt number at Liverpool if his expected move from Paris Saint-Germain is completed.
Liverpool are reportedly close to reaching a £120 million agreement for the 23-year-old winger, which would make Barcola one of the club’s biggest-ever signings.
With Mohamed Salah’s No. 11 shirt now available, there are several squad numbers Barcola could choose from. However, reports suggest the French forward is likely to stick with his preferred No. 29.
The number has a special significance for Barcola. During an interview with French outlet Club Legacyz, he revealed that his love for the number began while playing FIFA as a youngster.
Barcola explained that he became attached to No. 29 because of Alex Hunter, the fictional player from FIFA’s popular ‘The Journey’ story mode.
He said the number became symbolic to him and that he promised himself he would wear it once he became a professional footballer.
That promise has stayed with him throughout his career, and he is now reportedly set to bring the No. 29 shirt to Anfield.
Barcola has also previously explained the meaning behind his goal celebration, in which he points towards the sky. He said the gesture is his way of thanking God for everything he has been given.
Meanwhile, Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has remained cautious when asked about Barcola.
Iraola confirmed that the club are looking to strengthen their wide attacking options but refused to discuss a player who has not officially joined the team.
He admitted that the transfer situation remains uncertain and that he, like everyone else, must wait for the deals to be completed before making final plans.
With the transfer window approaching its final days, Liverpool fans may not have to wait much longer to discover whether Barcola will become the club’s latest major signing — and whether his beloved No. 29 shirt will follow him to Anfield.
