Liverpool are poised to accelerate their summer transfer activity after a quiet start, with three significant deals reportedly given the green light. The club has been linked with moves for Bradley Barcola, Ezri Konsa, and Matias Fernandez-Pardo, with a combined potential outlay of around £240m.
Quiet start to the window
While other Premier League 'Big Six' clubs have spent over £800m combined, Liverpool have made just two major signings so far: forward Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5m and Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for £55m. The subdued approach is surprising given the arrival of new head coach Andoni Iraola and the void left by Mohamed Salah's departure.
Last summer, Liverpool spent a staggering £446m and broke the British transfer record twice, making this year's caution even more striking. However, with the new campaign approaching, the club's restraint is not expected to last.
Bradley Barcola - £120m
PSG's Bradley Barcola has emerged as Liverpool's top attacking target. The 23-year-old has impressed with 34 goals and 28 assists in the last two Ligue 1 campaigns, but faces stiff competition at PSG from the likes of Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. According to French outlet Le10Sport, Barcola is "thrilled" at the idea of joining Liverpool and is "excited" by Iraola's project.
Talks between the clubs are set to begin, with PSG valuing the forward at around £140m. Liverpool hope to secure a deal closer to £100m, but a compromise around £120m could be enough. Barcola's versatility makes him a suitable successor to Salah, even though his preferred position is on the left.
Ezri Konsa - £60m
Centre-back has become a priority following Ibrahima Konate's departure. Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa fits the bill with his Premier League experience and leadership. The 28-year-old, a key figure for England at the World Cup, is comfortable in a high defensive line and can also play at right back.
Reports suggest Liverpool could bid around £60m, a figure that might tempt Villa to sell one of their most important players.
Matias Fernandez-Pardo - £60m
Lille's Matias Fernandez-Pardo is another target, with a £60m deal potentially on the cards. The 21-year-old Belgian international is versatile, able to play as a No. 9, No. 10, or on either wing. According to L'Equipe, he has handed in a transfer request, but Lille are keen to keep him.
With Hugo Ekitike set to miss the start of the season due to an Achilles injury, Fernandez-Pardo could provide immediate attacking depth and remains valuable even after Ekitike's return.
