Liverpool are reportedly set to lodge a new bid for Arsenal target Bradley Barcola next week, with renewed confidence after Paris Saint-Germain signed Mika Godts. The Reds have been in protracted talks for the player throughout the summer as they look to add firepower to Andoni Iraola’s front line.
Valuation dispute slows talks
It is thought that talks have been slowed by a difference of opinion regarding the player’s valuation, with PSG standing firm on a price tag around £145m. It was reported by The Athletic last week that Liverpool were almost ready to turn their attention to new targets.
However, there is hope for the Reds after PSG confirmed the signing of Godts in a deal which could be worth as much as £47m. The young winger arrives from Ajax and has signed a five-year deal, with his arrival expected to push Barcola closer to the exit door.
Barcola's desire to leave
Barcola is already keen to leave the club as he looks for increased first-team minutes, which can be hard to come by at PSG as he plays second fiddle to the likes of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue. The signing of the highly-rated Godts, who racked up a remarkable 30 goal contributions in 34 Eredivisie appearances last season, adds yet more competition for Barcola, and Liverpool are said to be increasingly optimistic of luring him to Anfield.
Per reports in France, Godts’ move to PSG will only accelerate Barcola’s departure to Liverpool, with the Reds expected to lodge a new bid next week. That is bad news for Arsenal, who are also known to be keen on bringing the Frenchman on board. Some reports suggest, however, they are unwilling to meet PSG’s lofty asking price.
Potential impact at Liverpool
Barcola was an unused substitute as PSG beat Aston Villa 2-1 in the UEFA Super Cup earlier this week. Starting in his place was another summer signing in Maghnes Akliouche. Should his transfer come to fruition, Barcola would follow Victor Munoz as the second winger to join Liverpool this summer. Iraola will be hoping for a busy close to the window, with his threadbare squad crying out for depth in a number of positions, most urgently in defence.
