Liverpool are reportedly pushing to sign Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, with the 23-year-old open to talks over a move. The France international is seen as a key target after Yan Diomande opted against joining the Reds. Reports suggest Liverpool are working on a deal, but PSG value Barcola around £140 million, and the 20-time English champions are seeking a compromise.
ECHO Writers Give Their Verdict
Connor O'Neill of the Liverpool ECHO said news of interest is not surprising, but the fee is. He questioned whether the Reds should pay over £100 million for potential, noting that replacing Mohamed Salah is impossible. However, Barcola has the pace and ability to give it a go, and a deal makes sense if a compromise is reached.
Stephen Killen highlighted that replacing Salah was never easy, but Liverpool needed reinforcements in wide areas after Luis Diaz's exit. He said the market is bloated, but with Barcola's best years ahead, the move is a no-brainer.
Aaron Morris said with Salah likely leaving and Cody Gakpo's patchy season, investing in a proven winger is wise. Following a Champions League-winning campaign and a strong World Cup, Barcola would thrive at Liverpool. Morris urged FSG to prioritise the move, though it may depend on PSG lowering their £145m valuation, especially after Liverpool spent £450m last year and need a centre-half after Ibrahima Konate's free transfer exit.
Matt Abbott noted that three years after turning down a £150m offer for Salah, Liverpool may now spend a similar amount on his replacement, but Barcola is a decade younger. He pointed out that Barcola's 13 goals and eight assists last season follow a 21-goal, 18-assist campaign, while Salah at the same age was joining Roma on loan. Abbott said signing Barcola and Victor Munoz (from Osasuna for £34.5m) for under £175m could be sensible business.
