Liverpool identify PSG’s Bradley Barcola as option to bolster their attack

Liverpool are assessing alternative options to bolster their frontline ahead of the new season, according to L’Equipe.

The Reds have had a productive transfer window and have already made four high-profile signings for manager Arne Slot.

Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike should be key players.

The Reds are also keen on bringing Alexander Isak from Newcastle United, but the Magpies are playing hardball in negotiations.

They have turned down an opening offer worth £110 million and seem to be holding out for £150m to part ways with the Swede.

Amidst this, L’Equipe claim that the Reds are exploring other avenues, and Barcola has emerged as a potential target for them.

Barcola was signed by Les Parisiens from Lyon for £43.5m. It is claimed that a £87m package could be required to test PSG’s resolve.

Barcola would be a statement signing

Isak had a standout campaign with the Magpies. He registered 27 goals and six assists from just 42 games for the Tyneside outfit.

He would be a massive signing for the Reds, and we could see Ekitike playing from the left wing if the Swede were to make a late move to Anfield.

However, a transfer is far from assured at the moment with the Magpies reluctant to part ways with Isak for less than £150m. They also require a successor.

Benjamin Sesko recently emerged as a prime target for Eddie Howe’s side, but the RB Leipzig ace is now focused on joining Manchester United instead.

Hence, a deal could be difficult to pull off. If Isak is not attainable this summer, the Reds could make a late approach to land Barcola from PSG.

The 22-year-old had a fabulous 2024/25 season with the French giants, contributing 21 goals and 21 assists under manager Luis Enrique.

Despite this, he may have possible thoughts about a new challenge as he does not appear a guaranteed starter heading into the new season.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue have been the preferred wingers with Ousmane Dembele operating from the number nine role.

Barcola was a regular substitute during the final phase of the Champions League last term.

He faced a similar situation at the Club World Cup once Dembele was back to full fitness.

Slot could persuade the Frenchman to join with more minutes from his preferred left wing role. Barcola would be a statement signing for the Reds.

The big question is whether PSG will contemplate parting ways with their prized asset.

He has three more years remaining on his contract, and talks are ongoing over a possible renewal.

PSG are in a strong position to decide the player’s future and could decide to keep him for another year even if there is a contract standoff.

In case the door opens for a potential exit, they will probably demand a much higher fee, possibly more than £100m to consider his transfer.

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