Liverpool are preparing an initial offer for Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola, following discussions with the player’s representatives. The France international has emerged as a primary target for Liverpool as they seek to reinforce Andoni Iraola’s squad with a proven winger for the upcoming season.
Barcola is understood to be receptive to a move to Anfield, having reportedly turned down a contract extension offer from PSG. He has two years remaining on his current deal with the European champions. Liverpool has been exploring the 23-year-old’s willingness to leave PSG for the Premier League and, having received encouragement regarding his desire to move, are expected to submit a bid in the coming days.
PSG has set a valuation for Barcola in the region of £145m, which would constitute a British record transfer sum. However, Liverpool reportedly does not intend to meet this figure, aiming instead for a deal closer to £100m. This approach is influenced by Barcola’s clear indication that he will not sign a new contract with PSG and is keen on a new challenge on Merseyside.
Barcola’s Role and History
Last season, Barcola made 49 appearances for the French side, contributing 13 goals and seven assists. He played a significant role as PSG secured both the Ligue 1 title and the Champions League. Predominantly operating from the left wing, he also demonstrated versatility by playing on the opposite flank. His game time in the later stages of PSG’s Champions League campaign often came from the bench, as he faced competition from players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue.
Barcola is a product of Lyon’s academy, where he broke into the first team during the 2021-22 season. During his time at Lyon, he recorded seven goals and 12 assists across 47 appearances before his move to PSG in August 2023. Since joining the Paris club, he has made 152 appearances, scoring 39 times and providing 37 assists.
His performances also earned him a place in Didier Deschamps’ 26-man squad for this summer’s World Cup, held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Barcola featured in all eight France fixtures during the tournament, scoring three goals.
Transfer Strategy and Squad Reinforcement
The pursuit of Barcola follows Liverpool’s initial interest in RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande. Liverpool had a bid for the Ivorian winger rejected, and Diomande is now reportedly close to joining Real Madrid after PSG withdrew from a potential deal. Liverpool subsequently shifted their focus to Barcola, having tracked his progress extensively since his breakthrough at Lyon five years ago.
Securing Barcola’s services would be a significant acquisition for new head coach Andoni Iraola. While Liverpool has already signed versatile forward Víctor Muñoz from Osasuna this summer and finalised Jérémy Jacquet’s transfer from Rennes for an initial £55m, the club is looking to further strengthen both its attack and defence. Iraola has expressed particular concerns regarding his defensive options.
Barcola is viewed as a more developed player compared to Victor Munoz, who is considered to have untapped potential. As a two-time Champions League winner, Barcola is expected to inject pace and quality into Liverpool’s frontline, filling a crucial role following the departure of Mohamed Salah at the end of the 2025-26 season. His potential arrival is seen as a statement signing for the club.
The club will attempt to make Barcola their statement signing of the summer.
Source: theguardian.com