Liverpool are preparing to step up their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola after missing out on long-term target Yan Diomande, who has reportedly chosen to continue his career in the French capital.
The Reds had identified Diomande as their preferred replacement following Mohamed Salah’s departure and were willing to make one of the biggest offers in the club’s history to secure the highly-rated RB Leipzig winger. Liverpool saw an opening bid worth €90 million plus €10 million in add-ons rejected and were expected to return with an improved proposal.
However, the transfer race has taken a dramatic turn after Diomande reached a verbal agreement on personal terms with Paris Saint-Germain. Reports suggest the Ivory Coast international has opted for the European champions because of their long-term project, the opportunity to compete regularly for major trophies and the chance to work under Luis Enrique.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the player has made PSG his preferred destination, leaving negotiations between the French champions and RB Leipzig as the next major hurdle. While Leipzig remain reluctant to sell, discussions between the clubs are expected to continue, with the Bundesliga side demanding well in excess of €100 million for an immediate transfer.
Liverpool are now reassessing their options and have revived their long-standing interest in Bradley Barcola.
The France international has been admired by Liverpool for more than a year, with Romano previously revealing that the winger remained high on the club’s shortlist regardless of their pursuit of Diomande. The latest developments have now elevated Barcola to one of Liverpool’s leading attacking targets.
Although PSG have not officially indicated a willingness to sell the 23-year-old, uncertainty remains over his future. Diomande’s anticipated arrival would further increase competition across the club’s attacking positions, potentially opening the door for Barcola to consider a new challenge if the right offer arrives.
Liverpool are expected to continue reshaping their forward line this summer after already completing the signing of Victor Munoz from Osasuna. The club remains keen to add another wide attacker capable of bringing pace, creativity and goals to Andoni Iraola’s squad ahead of the new campaign.
Despite Diomande’s apparent preference for PSG, Liverpool have not completely abandoned hope. Any move could yet be revived if negotiations between PSG and Leipzig break down, although current indications suggest the Premier League side will only re-enter the race should the player change his stance.
For now, Barcola appears to be Liverpool’s most realistic elite alternative. The French winger has enjoyed an impressive spell at PSG and remains highly regarded at Anfield, where recruitment staff believe he possesses the technical quality and versatility needed to strengthen the club’s attack.
Whether PSG are prepared to sanction his departure remains the biggest question, but Liverpool are expected to monitor developments closely as the summer transfer window enters a crucial phase.
