Liverpool's first summer under Andoni Iraola has seen mixed progress in the transfer market, but activity is expected to pick up. The pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola remains a key storyline, with developments in the last two days altering the picture.
Ndukwe's Work Permit Issue
New signing Ifeanyi Ndukwe will not be available for Iraola this season. The £2.6m signing from Austria Wien, completed in January and finalized in July, failed to secure a work permit in the UK. As a result, a loan move is likely to allow the 18-year-old to gain experience.
This adds to defensive concerns after Joe Gomez's pre-season injury, Jeremy Jacquet's yet-to-debut status, Giovanni Leoni's knee injury, and Ibrahima Konate's free transfer to Real Madrid.
Barcola's Contract Stance
Bradley Barcola, a target for Liverpool, has informed PSG he will not sign a new contract but, as reported by Le Parisien, "will not force a move". The 23-year-old has already rejected a contract offer and also turned down an approach from Chelsea earlier this summer.
While this stance may complicate Liverpool's pursuit, it shows the player's principle. Liverpool need a replacement for Mohamed Salah after his departure, having signed Victor Munoz for £34m from Osasuna.
