Liverpool have opened talks with Paris Saint-Germain over a blockbuster transfer for French winger Bradley Barcola. The 23-year-old, a World Cup star with France and two-time Champions League winner with PSG, is one of Europe's most highly-rated players but has been displaced in the starting XI since the arrival of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Barcola discussions begin
Sky Sports News reported Liverpool could be on course to secure their ideal Mohamed Salah successor after initiating talks. The player is said to have verbally committed to the switch, with PSG now requiring persuasion over the transfer fee. PSG are reportedly seeking £145 million for their asset, which would surpass the British transfer record of £125m Liverpool spent on Alexander Isak last summer.
Barcola has moved into the final two years of his deal at the Parc des Princes and is understood to have rejected fresh discussions over a contract extension. French reports indicate Barcola snubbed Chelsea earlier this summer, and Liverpool's progress in negotiations suggests a move to England is more appealing to the French ace.
The fact that Barcola is in the final two years of his deal is a crucial element. While PSG maintain a strong negotiating position, Liverpool are aware Barcola's valuation could fall dramatically next summer, potentially giving the Premier League giants a bargaining tool.
PSG were favourites to secure another Liverpool target, Yan Diomande, but have reportedly cooled their interest amid reports the 19-year-old RB Leipzig star is destined for Real Madrid.
Fernandez-Pardo submits transfer request
Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo has submitted a transfer request at his club, according to the Mirror. The 21-year-old has been mentioned as a Liverpool target and appears keen to take advantage of the speculation surrounding his future. Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa are among other clubs reportedly keen. He carries a transfer price tag of around £50m, making him a more affordable option than some other attacking targets. The Belgian international is versatile across the front line but has primarily featured as a centre forward for Lille, scoring eight goals and providing five assists in 29 Ligue 1 outings last season.
