Former Chelsea and France winger Florent Malouda has advised Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola that a move to the Premier League would suit him perfectly, as Liverpool consider the 23-year-old as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.
Liverpool's Search for Salah's Successor
Liverpool are actively scouting wingers this summer after Mohamed Salah's contract at Anfield expired on June 30. Barcola is among several wide players under consideration by the Reds' recruitment team. The club had identified RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande as a primary target, but the £100m-rated Brazil international is believed to prefer a move to European champions PSG, which has opened the door for Barcola.
Arsenal are also interested in Barcola, but Liverpool are keen to bring the France international to Merseyside. PSG are reluctant to let him leave but have so far failed to agree on a new contract with the player, who scored in France's 3-0 World Cup win over Sweden earlier this week.
Malouda's Endorsement
Florent Malouda, who spent six years at Chelsea from 2007 to 2013, believes Barcola's qualities are well-suited to English football. "When you look at Bradley Barcola's story, first of all, he's coming from the Lyon Academy," Malouda told BOYLE Sports. "He made the right choices. When he left, it was not easy for him. He left and he won two Champions Leagues in the best team in French football history."
Malouda acknowledged the challenge Barcola faces competing with Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue for starting spots at PSG but praised his consistency. "He showed every time he came on that he has the same level, maybe not as consistent, but he has the potential," Malouda added.
Leadership Expectations
The former Chelsea star emphasized that Barcola's next move must be carefully considered, as he will be expected to take on a leadership role. "Choosing his next destination is about whether he is ready to take a leadership role, because that's what will be expected from him. You just won the Champions League, any club buying you will expect you to lead them to winning these kinds of trophies," Malouda said.
Malouda concluded that Barcola could fit into any Premier League team, describing him as "a very talented young player." Liverpool's recruitment team will be hoping to secure his signature as they rebuild their attacking options ahead of the new season.
