Emmanuel Petit has said that everyone in France knew Liverpool paid far more for Bradley Barcola than he is actually worth. The former Arsenal midfielder believes the £106m fee, potentially rising to £123m, was around double the player's true value.
Petit's Verdict on the Fee
Speaking on talkSPORT, Petit said: "£120million? I would never put that price tag on the table. We all know that in France." He added that Barcola is a quality player but lacks consistency during games, having looked good at Paris Saint-Germain because of the team around him.
When asked directly if Liverpool overpaid, Petit replied: "Oh yeah, definitely. I would probably have spent £60m or £70m, maximum. That's my opinion." He also said it is becoming common for English clubs to spend so much money on overrated players.
Barcola's Struggles at Anfield
Barcola, who wanted to leave the European champions, has yet to register a goal or assist in six appearances across all competitions. His form reflects both his own difficulties and Liverpool's wider struggles under new manager Andoni Iraola.
Last season, Barcola managed 13 goals and seven assists in a strong PSG side, but he failed to establish himself as a regular starter due to the quality of the club's other attacking options.
Wider Spending Trend
Four of the Premier League's five most expensive deals ever were completed in the summer, including Manchester City's signings of Enzo Fernandez and Elliot Anderson, and Morgan Rogers's transfer to Chelsea. Liverpool have also spent more than £100m on Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz over the past two summers, with both yet to justify their fees.
