Liverpool have received fresh encouragement in their pursuit of Bradley Barcola after transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed the Paris Saint-Germain winger is no longer considered untouchable by the French champions.
The Reds are expected to strengthen their attacking options this summer following the arrival of Victor Munoz, with uncertainty surrounding the futures of several wide players. Mohamed Salah has become a free agent, while Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa continue to attract transfer interest, leaving Liverpool in the market for another elite winger.
Liverpool had initially identified RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande as a priority target, but the highly-rated winger is now expected to join PSG instead. That development has pushed Barcola to the top of Liverpool’s shortlist.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said Barcola’s situation at PSG has changed significantly.
“The reality is that Barcola is not untouchable,” Romano said. “He has serious possibilities to leave PSG this summer.”
The Italian journalist added that Liverpool have maintained a long-standing interest in the France international and remain among the clubs monitoring his situation closely.
“Liverpool have the player at the very top of their shortlist and remain interested,” Romano explained, while also noting that Arsenal are admirers of Barcola but currently regard Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers as their preferred option on the left wing.
One factor increasing speculation over Barcola’s future is the lack of progress in contract negotiations with PSG. Romano said discussions over a new deal have stalled completely, although the Ligue 1 giants would still demand a substantial transfer fee before agreeing to sell the 23-year-old.
Any move is unlikely to materialise until after the FIFA World Cup, with Barcola making it clear that his immediate focus is helping France challenge for the trophy.
Asked recently about his future, the winger said: “Right now, I’m really focused on the World Cup. As for what will happen afterwards, honestly, I don’t know yet.”
PSG’s transfer activity could also influence Barcola’s future. The European champions are working on deals for Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche and remain favourites to sign Yan Diomande, potentially increasing competition for places in Luis Enrique’s attack.
Although PSG are not actively pushing Barcola towards the exit, Liverpool believe an agreement could become possible if the French club receives an offer that matches their valuation, which is reported to exceed £116 million.
