Liverpool have had to shift their transfer strategy in the hunt for a top-tier winger after their primary target, Yan Diomande, made clear his desire to join Paris Saint-Germain. The Reds now set their sights on Bradley Barcola, who is also under contract with the French champions, as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.
Diomande leans towards Parc des Princes
Liverpool have abandoned the trail leading to Diomande, the 19-year-old RB Leipzig prodigy who impressed during the World Cup. He is now expected to join the Ligue 1 holders. PSG are highly confident of finalising a deal with Leipzig quickly. The Bundesliga club initially demanded a huge fee, which eventually cooled Liverpool’s interest as they refused to exceed their own internal valuation for the young talent.
Barcola emerges as Liverpool’s main option
With Diomande seemingly heading to Ligue 1, Liverpool have turned to Barcola. The 23-year-old winger features prominently on Anfield’s recruiting shortlist. His profile matches the criteria for eventually succeeding Salah, especially after the successful acquisition of Victor Munoz from Osasuna. The French international’s situation at PSG is complicated. Though still highly regarded, his future remains uncertain due to frustration over not being selected for the biggest matches. Specifically, Barcola was disappointed not to start in PSG’s recent Champions League final victory over Arsenal, raising questions about his long-term prospects under Luis Enrique.
An exit could be on the cards for Barcola
PSG are not actively looking to sell Barcola, but may be forced to let him go this summer. With only two years left on his current contract, this is the Parisians’ last chance to secure a significant fee if the winger refuses to extend. The club will not let him leave cheaply, but they are unlikely to block a departure if a satisfactory offer arrives. Arsenal have been mentioned as a possible destination, but the Gunners appear focused on other targets for now. As the transfer window heats up, Liverpool look the most determined to test PSG’s resolve, especially if Barcola returns from international duty still uneasy about his role in the team.
Barcola’s trophy-laden PSG career
Signed by Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023 for €45 million, Barcola has since made 152 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring 39 goals and providing 37 assists. His trophy haul at PSG includes twelve titles, among them two Champions League crowns and three Ligue 1 championships. During the World Cup group stage, he scored against Sénégal and delivered an assist against Norway for the French national team.
