Liverpool believe they are in pole position to sign Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola ahead of Arsenal and Bayern Munich, as they step up plans to replace Mohamed Salah.
The 23-year-old France international is valued at around £100m and has attracted strong interest across Europe, but Liverpool are confident they can move ahead of their rivals in negotiations for the Paris Saint-Germain attacker.
Arsenal have identified Barcola as a major target for this transfer window after missing out on Morgan Rogers, who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa in a £117m deal. Bayern Munich are also monitoring the situation closely.
According to The Sun, Liverpool currently lead the race for Barcola, who has impressed with his performances for the France national team on their run to the World Cup semi-finals.
Liverpool’s search for a marquee forward
Liverpool are prioritising a high-profile attacking signing following the departure of long-serving forward Mohamed Salah.
The club have already encountered frustration in the market, having failed in a move for Yan Diomande, who is now set to join Paris Saint-Germain from RB Leipzig.
Diomande’s expected arrival in the French capital is seen as a key factor that could open the door for Barcola to leave, with Paris Saint-Germain now having greater flexibility in their attacking options.
Barcola has two years remaining on his contract with the French champions and is understood to be ready for a new challenge in his career.
PSG under pressure to sell
Paris Saint-Germain also face financial considerations as they look to reshape their squad.
The French club are seeking to raise funds to move for Monaco midfielder Maghnes Akliouche. The 24-year-old is valued at about £43m, and PSG are expected to need additional income to facilitate that transfer.
Offloading Barcola for a significant fee would help ease that pressure and support their plans to reinforce the midfield with Akliouche.
Liverpool’s wider transfer business
Liverpool’s pursuit of Barcola comes as part of a broader overhaul of their forward line.
The club have already secured the signing of Spanish winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna in a £34.5m deal. Munoz will add depth to Liverpool’s wide options as they transition into a new attacking era without Salah.
In addition, Jeremy Jackier is set to join the squad after Liverpool reached an agreement with Rennes in January for a £55m transfer. That deal, completed in the winter window, will see the player formally link up with the team ahead of the new season.
With Munoz and Jackier already on their way to Anfield, the capture of Barcola would represent another major statement of intent, as Liverpool look to rebuild a front line capable of competing for domestic and European honours following Salah’s exit.
