Liverpool Receive Boost in Bradley Barcola Pursuit as PSG Attack Gets Crowded
Liverpool have been handed fresh encouragement in their efforts to sign Bradley Barcola after PSG added more attacking options to their squad.
The Reds have been pursuing the 23-year-old throughout the summer, but PSG’s reported £145 million valuation has made negotiations difficult.
However, the situation could now change following PSG’s arrivals of Mika Godts, Maghnes Akliouche and Ferran Torres. With more competition for places, Barcola’s chances of securing regular playing time could become limited.
According to reports, Liverpool are preparing to make another attempt to sign the French winger after PSG completed the deal for Godts from Ajax. The Belgian has agreed a five-year contract in a transfer that could eventually be worth around £47 million.
Barcola is reportedly open to the possibility of moving to Anfield, while PSG’s recent recruitment could make his departure more realistic. He was left on the bench during the French champions’ 2-1 UEFA Super Cup win over Aston Villa, with new signing Akliouche preferred from the start.
PSG have also brought in Ferran Torres from Barcelona for a reported €50 million, further increasing their attacking depth.
Manager Luis Enrique has previously praised Barcola, describing him as “unstoppable”, but he has also suggested that unhappy players could be allowed to seek new opportunities.
The situation could work in Liverpool’s favour. PSG now have several attacking options, including Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué, Akliouche, Torres and Godts, making Barcola’s huge valuation increasingly difficult to justify if his playing time decreases.
Liverpool remain in need of another top-level winger, and Barcola would offer pace, directness and strong one-on-one ability. At 23, he could also become an important part of Andoni Iraola’s plans for many years.
The major obstacle remains the transfer fee. Even with PSG’s crowded attack, £145 million would represent a huge investment.
Liverpool could therefore return with another serious offer while remaining cautious over the finances. With circumstances now seemingly shifting in their favour, PSG may eventually be forced to lower their demands.
