Liverpool are targeting either Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig or Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain to bolster their attacking options this summer, but Arsenal’s potential interest in Barcola could complicate matters, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
The Reds are aiming to sign at least two forwards in the upcoming transfer window, with the departure of Mohamed Salah anticipated and questions surrounding Federico Chiesa’s long-term future at Anfield. Liverpool ideally want to bring in two wide players, or a winger and a more versatile forward.
Diomande, 19, has emerged as a primary target for the flanks, with David Ornstein reporting that Liverpool have made significant progress in agreeing personal terms with the Ivorian winger. Leipzig are reluctant to sell and are attempting to secure Diomande to a new contract, but Liverpool are prepared to meet their asking price, which is believed to be around €100 million or more, should the player express a desire to leave.
Competition for Diomande’s signature is strong, particularly from PSG, though Manchester United are also admirers. Currently, the race appears to be a direct contest between Liverpool and the French champions. Should Liverpool fail to secure Diomande, Romano suggests that Barcola could become an alternative target.
PSG are expected to offload players if they sign Diomande, with Barcola identified as a potential departure, a scenario Liverpool would welcome given their assessment of the French winger’s quality. However, Arsenal have also expressed interest in Barcola, potentially initiating a bidding war. Romano revealed on his YouTube channel that Arsenal “appreciate the player and I expect movement around both players for sure.”
This creates a potential worst-case scenario for Liverpool where PSG acquire Diomande and then sell Barcola to Arsenal, leaving them without either of their preferred options. Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United is considered a fallback option, though Liverpool do not rate him as highly as Diomande or Barcola.
