Liverpool are expected to make a 'new offer' for Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola later this week, according to French outlet RMC Sport. The Reds are looking to strengthen their front line before the end of the summer transfer window and have identified the 23-year-old France international as a top target.
Barcola was not included in PSG's squad for Sunday's Trophee des Champions defeat to Lens, and his future at the Parc des Princes remains uncertain. He has made it clear he has no intention of signing a new contract, though he still has two years left on his current deal.
PSG Open to Sale Amid Valuation Gap
PSG are open to selling Barcola for the right price and remain in active talks with Liverpool. According to RMC Sport, Andoni Iraola's side remain 'motivated' to sign the forward this summer. Although there is a difference in valuation, the Reds are set to launch a new bid by the end of the week.
PSG were initially reluctant to let Barcola leave, but the arrivals of Maghnes Akliouche and Mika Godts have changed their stance. The French club's valuation for Barcola is now at £120m, a fee that would make him Liverpool's second most expensive signing behind Alexander Isak, who joined for £130m from Newcastle.
Al-Khelaifi Offers Cryptic Update
Last week, PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi provided a cryptic update on Barcola's future amid transfer speculation and reported interest from Arsenal and Liverpool. "We're working calmly," Al-Khelaifi said. "We don't talk too much. We get things done. All of our players are important. When they sign for PSG, they become important to us."
Elsewhere, Liverpool remain interested in Barcola's PSG teammate Ibrahim Mbaye. Earlier this week, it was reported that the Reds had reached an agreement on personal terms with the 18-year-old, who has given his green light on a move to Anfield and does not want to entertain other offers amid interest from Bayer Leverkusen. Liverpool and PSG are expected to negotiate a fee before the September 1 transfer deadline, with the Ligue 1 club wanting a figure between £30m and £45m.
Potential Combined Deal
Combined with the £120m request for Barcola, Liverpool could find themselves spending around £165m on the pair, though PSG might reduce that figure slightly as part of a combined arrangement. The Reds have had a quiet summer when it comes to incomings thus far, with Jeremy Jacquet signing in a £53m deal from Rennes, Victor Munoz joining for £34m from Osasuna, and Ronald Araujo arriving on loan from Barcelona until the end of the season.
