Liverpool are preparing to submit an official offer for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, but the bid is expected to be rejected by the French champions.
Barcola has become Liverpool's primary transfer target this summer, with new manager Andoni Iraola keen to strengthen his attacking options. The France international has two years remaining on his current contract with PSG, who have softened their stance on a potential sale.
PSG's firm stance
The reigning Champions League winners had previously insisted that the 23-year-old was not for sale at any price. However, having identified potential replacements, a deal is now possible if their valuation is met.
Liverpool have made a slow start to the summer transfer window, with the £35 million signing of Osasuna winger Victor Munoz being their only significant acquisition. The £55 million arrival of Jeremy Jacquet was completed in January.
Offer expected to be rejected
According to L'Equipe, Liverpool are ready to step up negotiations with PSG for Barcola. They will submit an offer in the region of €115 million (£98 million), anticipating that it will be turned down.
PSG are reluctant to lose Barcola, who has been a key contributor to their success under Luis Enrique. However, they do not wish to retain a player against his will, so they have set a price tag of €150 million (£128.5 million) on the winger.
Their resolve may have been strengthened by the £120 million fee RB Leipzig received from Real Madrid for Yan Diomande, who is four years younger and has considerably less experience than Barcola.
Barcola's record and personal terms
Barcola has scored 39 goals in 152 appearances for PSG since joining from Lyon three years ago. He has formed a strong partnership with Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue under Enrique, but is keen to move to Anfield.
The winger has already agreed personal terms with Liverpool, and a deal appears likely. Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is leading negotiations, with Luis Campos representing PSG and agent Moussa Sissoko acting on Barcola's behalf.
L'Equipe reports that Liverpool are not actively pursuing any alternative to Barcola, highlighting their determination to secure the Frenchman. Iraola has spoken publicly about the need for a winger, even after the signing of Munoz.
"There are obvious situations that we know where we need to sign players," he said last month. "A winger, for example – we definitely need to sign a winger."
