Liverpool have identified Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as a primary transfer target this summer, according to multiple reports. The move comes as the Reds face increased competition from PSG themselves for their initial top target, RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande.
French outlet Foot Parisien reports that PSG advisor Luis Campos is pushing to sign Diomande, a development that could force the Ligue 1 champions to sell Barcola to fund the deal. Liverpool journalist David Lynch has confirmed the Merseyside club's interest in the 23-year-old French international, who is emerging as Liverpool's leading alternative should they miss out on Diomande.
Liverpool's need for a high-calibre winger is driven by the anticipated departure of Mohamed Salah, with the club seeking a long-term replacement. Diomande had been their number one target, with the Ivorian having scored 13 goals and provided nine assists for Leipzig this season. However, the competition from PSG has complicated that pursuit, prompting Liverpool to explore other options.
Bradley Barcola joined PSG from Lyon in the summer of 2023 for a fee reported to be around €45 million. The versatile forward, capable of playing on either wing, has made 43 appearances for the French giants this season, contributing nine goals and eight assists. His direct dribbling and pace have made him a valued asset, though PSG are reportedly more willing to part with him than other attacking talents like Ousmane Dembele or Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Valuations for Barcola vary significantly in the reports, with figures ranging from €71 million (£61.5m) to €100 million (£87m). Sources indicate that Liverpool have already made preliminary approaches for both Barcola and Rennes' Desire Doue during March, but were informed the players were not for sale at that time. The situation is now believed to be fluid, with Barcola's availability directly tied to PSG's success in landing Diomande.
Anfield Watch has claimed there is a 'real chance' Barcola will seek a new club this summer and that Liverpool view his potential signing as a 'real opportunity'. The player's future is therefore contingent on a domino effect within the transfer market, with Diomande's decision likely to trigger further movement. German journalist Christian Falk has added that Leipzig are also attempting to tie Diomande to a new contract with a view to a later sale, which could upend the plans of both Liverpool and PSG.
For Liverpool, securing a player of Barcola's profile would represent a significant coup in their attacking rebuild under the new sporting structure led by Richard Hughes. His acquisition would provide immediate quality and depth on the flanks as the club prepares for a future without Salah. For PSG, selling Barcola would be a pragmatic sacrifice to secure their own primary target, demonstrating the interconnected nature of the high-stakes summer market.
