Liverpool's pursuit of PSG winger Bradley Barcola is entering a crucial phase, with the Reds yet to submit a formal offer for the France international. The club has identified Barcola as their primary transfer target, aiming to secure a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah.
According to Sky Sports, Liverpool's delay is a deliberate strategy. The club wants to establish what PSG would realistically accept before making their opening move, rather than risking a bid that is immediately rejected and negotiations becoming public.
Valuation gap
PSG are thought to value Barcola at around £145 million, while Liverpool hope a deal can be struck closer to the £100 million mark, leaving a significant gap between the two clubs' valuations. Barcola, 23, has produced 34 goals and 28 assists across the past two seasons at club level, despite fierce competition for places from Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue.
The player is reportedly keen on a move to Anfield, where he would be offered a more central role in Liverpool's attack and the prospect of regular first-team football.
PSG preparing for life without Barcola
While Liverpool and PSG remain apart on valuation, there are growing signs that the French champions are planning for a future without Barcola. According to reports, PSG have agreed a deal to sign Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche, with the versatile attacker expected to undergo a medical ahead of a £42.8 million move to the Parc des Princes.
PSG are also closing in on Ajax winger Mika Godts, with reports suggesting a deal worth around £50 million is nearing completion. Should both arrivals be finalised, it would further fuel speculation that PSG are preparing to cash in on Barcola.
Liverpool's summer transfer business has been unusually subdued so far, with new head coach Andoni Iraola adding just two players to his squad: Victor Munoz, who joined from Osasuna in a £34.5 million deal, and Jeremy Jacquet, whose £55 million move from Rennes was agreed back in February. However, the Reds are expected to accelerate their recruitment before the window closes, with one or two marquee additions—particularly in attack—firmly on the agenda.
