Liverpool are reportedly set to make an official approach for PSG winger Bradley Barcola after holding 'preliminary talks' with the player's representatives. That's according to Sky Sports, who say the back-to-back Champions League winners could soften their stance when it comes to the French international's asking price.
Price and valuation
PSG reportedly value the 23-year-old winger at £145m, but the report claims sources have indicated that fee could be lower. It's said that Barcola could be available for a fee closer to £128.5m, with Liverpool making the PSG winger their number one transfer target in their search for a Mohamed Salah replacement.
Liverpool's stance
The Liverpool ECHO understands the Reds are yet to open talks with PSG amid reports in France claiming the club had agreed personal terms with the French international. The European champions have been, thus far, reluctant to sell the French international and the decision to pull out of talks for Yan Diomande could harden that stance.
PSG's statement on Diomande
Luis Enrique's side had been the favourites to sign the 19-year-old Ivory Coast international, but released a damning statement explaining of their decision to pull out of talks, with Real Madrid now closing in on Diomande. The statement read: "PSG has this evening officially withdrawn its interest and its bids for Yan Diomande. The asking transfer fee and salary demands were completely disproportionate and distortive – and PSG will not break its principles of rational financial management and squad balance. As a two-time consecutive Champions League winner and the most successful club in recent years, PSG will also not engage in the inflationary and manipulative games of certain player agents – and will instead calmly and confidently continue its transfer planning."
Reports from France
Reports in France from L'Equipe claimed that Barcola had agreed to join the Reds after talks with Andoni Iraola, writing: "This could be a decisive step in this saga." Although formal communication between the two clubs is yet to commence, it's understood a deal in excess of £100m would not put Liverpool off.
