Liverpool return to Premier League action today as they welcome Nottingham Forest to Anfield for their first home fixture of the season. Head coach Andoni Iraola is looking for his side to secure their opening victory of the season following a hard-fought 2–2 draw away at Newcastle United last Sunday.
Barcola deal agreed with PSG
Reinforcements appear to be on the immediate horizon. Liverpool have struck a £120million deal with Paris Saint-Germain for winger Bradley Barcola. While the finer details of the arrangement are still being finalised, the French forward has made his intentions clear regarding a move to Merseyside.
Although Barcola remains a PSG player for now, Iraola could soon have a major new attacking asset to integrate into his squad. Meanwhile, tactical adjustments are already underway within the existing squad, with one Liverpool star speaking out about adapting to a new position under the new manager's system.
Barcola's PSG exit nears
The France international is yet to feature this season, having been named as a substitute for PSG's UEFA Super Cup triumph over Aston Villa and excluded from the squad for their domestic fixtures against Lens and Rennes.
With his switch to Liverpool drawing nearer, he was again omitted from PSG's matchday squad for their Ligue 1 encounter against Lille on Friday. Barcola is anticipated to become Liverpool's second most expensive signing of all time should a deal be finalised, trailing only Alexander Isak's £125m transfer.
The winger netted 13 goals and registered seven assists across 49 appearances in all competitions last season. He was instrumental in PSG's consecutive Champions League triumphs, though he has faced stiff competition for minutes against Kvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue.
Wirtz on his new role
Under Arne Slot, Florian Wirtz featured as an attacking midfielder and on the left flank, but never fully established himself in a single position during his maiden campaign in England. However, Iraola confirmed during pre-season that he views the German as his 'No. 10' and the creative heartbeat of his side.
Speaking to Sky Germany, the 23-year-old said the responsibilities assigned to him by his new manager are straightforward, while discussing the approach the Spaniard is looking to introduce. Wirtz said: "He (Iraola) just wants to play power football going forward. Lots of pressing. The tasks you have are actually relatively clear.
"Of course, we now have to work on making it work as a team. So not only that everyone does their job well, but that it also harmonizes together. But he definitely makes a very good impression on me.
"I think that he reaches a lot of players with it and that we as a team also understand what he wants from us. I think it's definitely a good start, that the players believe in it, and I hope that it will be successful."
