Liverpool have been handed a boost in their attempts to sign Bradley Barcola and Yankuba Minteh. The Reds have just one week until the September 1 transfer deadline as they look to drastically improve their attacking options by acquiring the forward duo.
Barcola open to Liverpool move
Paris Saint-Germain winger Barcola has been a top target for Andoni Iraola's side this summer, who have been locked in negotiations with the French champions for some time. Luis Enrique's side are said to be looking for a fee of around £130-£140million to part ways with the France international.
While an agreement on a figure has yet to be ratified, the ECHO understands Barcola is open to joining the Premier League giants. The 23-year-old's desire to join Liverpool could help push through the move, especially after the Champions League winners brought in Maghnes Akliouche, Ferran Torres and Mika Godts.
Negotiations continue
BBC Sport suggests that it's "very likely" that the two clubs shake hands on a deal before the transfer window closes. The Reds have shown no willingness to meet PSG's lofty valuation, but a compromise could be made, according to French journalist Fabrice Hawkins.
Speaking on the After Foot podcast, via the ECHO, it was claimed that a fee between £111m and £128m will be enough for the Reds to secure their long-awaited target.
Minteh keen on Anfield move
It's expected that Barcola would play on the left wing for Liverpool, with Minteh on the opposite flank, should the Reds strike a deal with Brighton. Liverpool have so far had bids in the region of £50million and £60m rejected by the Seagulls.
Said to be valued at over £70m, the Reds are considering making a third bid for the Gambian international. In a similar case to Barcola, while a fee hasn't yet been finalised between the clubs, Minteh is keen on a move to Anfield and has already agreed personal terms, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Minteh is dreaming of joining Liverpool and has publicly opened up about how his game would suit the club. "I always dream, and I always had this belief in me that one day I will play in one of the biggest teams in the world," he told Gambian journalist Foday Manneh.
"My dream club for me is any team that comes. As long as it's a big club, I will go there because everyone wants to play in a big club. But I think the club which suits me really well, I would say Liverpool."
Iraola admits squad shortage
Iraola hasn't been shy in admitting his side are short of options - and quality - on the wings. He discussed the situation prior to the Newcastle clash, where he said: "In terms of what we need, there are certain situations that are clear, especially out on the wing because we don't have enough players specific to play in those positions."
"In other positions, I think we have to be open-minded in the market to see situations that can honestly improve our team. It's not about signing players because we need them; it's about improving the squad. We have very good players already here, so to improve on these players, we need a specific level of player."
