Liverpool have taken another huge step towards signing Bradley Barcola with Paris Saint-Germain reportedly lowering their asking price for the France star.
Barcola is a key target for the Reds, and has also been linked with Arsenal, as new manager Andoni Iraola pushes to strengthen his forward line following the departure of Mohamed Salah.
The 23-year-old has reportedly made it clear that he is open to a move to Anfield, with personal terms not expected to be a problem. Liverpool see Barcola as a player capable of making an immediate impact on both flanks.
PSG double raid
PSG team-mate Ibrahim Mbaye is also a target, with French publication RMC Sport reporting on Monday that Liverpool have agreed personal terms with the young striker as they continue talks with PSG over a sensational double raid.
The major obstacle, though, has been the transfer fee for Barcola.
PSG had previously placed a valuation of about £145m on the France international, a figure Liverpool were unwilling to meet. However, reports now suggest that the French champions have reduced their demands to as low as £110m, potentially bringing the two clubs closer to an agreement.
PSG's reduced demands
French outlet Jeunes Footeux report that PSG’s recent transfer business - signing the likes of Ferran Torres and Mika Godts in bolster the attack - means the demands placed upon Barcola’s head could be relaxed.
The Ligue 1 giants have now invested around €150 million in their summer recruitment, although their spending has been offset by player sales so remain under no immediate pressure to offload further players.
Team selections offer encouragement
There has been further encouragement for Liverpool from PSG’s recent team selections. Barcola was left on the bench for the UEFA Super Cup win over Aston Villa, and out of the squad entirely for the Trophée des Champions defeat to Lens at the weekend. Mbaye was also absent.
Despite hope over a possible discount for Barcola, Liverpool must still agree a fee with PSG and remain locked in negotiations. There is no suggestion that Liverpool will pay PSG’s asking price.
