Liverpool have reportedly reached an agreement with Paris Saint-Germain for the transfer of French winger Bradley Barcola.
The reported package is £106 million upfront, plus up to £17 million in add-ons, potentially taking the total value to around £123 million. The deal is expected to be completed before the transfer deadline, with Barcola also expected to undergo his medical and sign a five-year contract.
Barcola has reportedly been Liverpool’s main attacking target for much of the summer. His arrival would give manager Andoni Iraola another explosive attacking option, particularly after Liverpool’s need to replace the attacking output lost following Mohamed Salah’s departure.
What happens to Cody Gakpo?
Barcola’s arrival has raised major questions about Cody Gakpo’s future at Anfield. Gakpo naturally prefers operating from the left, which is also Barcola’s preferred position, although Barcola can play on the right.
Tottenham and Manchester City have reportedly shown interest in Gakpo, meaning Liverpool could potentially face offers for the Dutch international before the window closes.
However, the latest report provides an important update: Liverpool are unlikely to sell Gakpo simply because Barcola arrives. According to a report attributed to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, Gakpo would only be allowed to leave if Liverpool also sign another forward in addition to Barcola.
That means Liverpool could potentially keep Gakpo while adding Barcola, giving Iraola considerably more attacking depth.
Iraola’s position
Iraola has refused to guarantee that Gakpo will remain at Liverpool because the transfer window is still open. At the same time, he praised Gakpo’s performances and attitude, saying he has been playing very well since returning from the World Cup.
So, Barcola’s arrival does not automatically mean Gakpo is leaving. Liverpool appear to be weighing up their options, and unless they bring in another attacker, the latest information suggests Gakpo is expected to stay.
Bottom line: 🔴 Liverpool are closing in on a huge £106m + £17m deal for Bradley Barcola, but Cody Gakpo’s future remains dependent on whether Liverpool sign another forward before the transfer window closes.
