Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola says his side’s 4-2 friendly defeat by Leeds United exposed weaknesses that must be addressed before the new season, as the club works to reach an agreement for Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola.
The Spanish manager described Sunday’s loss as a valuable test, despite the disappointing result, while Liverpool continue negotiations over a major attacking signing. Reports from The Telegraph, Sky Sports and Liverpool Echo say the former Lyon player has become the club’s leading attacking target, although discussions over the transfer fee remain complicated.
“I think we learned a lot from this game. Clearly, it is not the result we were hoping for, but I think it was probably the most useful friendly we have played so far,” said Iraola after the match.
“We played with clear positivity in the first half, but we were completely passive in the second half. We learned a lot today (yesterday), and I think we can draw some good lessons and solve some of the problems that emerged.”
Iraola was particularly concerned by issues in defence, where Liverpool are dealing with several significant injuries.
Liverpool focus on Barcola
Liverpool have made a relatively quiet start to the summer transfer window compared with last year. Victor Munoz, who joined for 40m euros, is the only player to have arrived at the English club so far.
That cautious approach follows a record-breaking summer in 2025, when Liverpool spent about 500m euros. The contrast has surprised and concerned supporters who had expected another busy period of recruitment.
The situation could change in the coming days, with Liverpool pushing to add a high-impact attacking player. Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig had previously been regarded as a top priority, but his expected move to Real Madrid has led the club to concentrate fully on Barcola.
The France international is reportedly keen on a move to Liverpool after declining to extend his contract with Paris Saint-Germain. That decision has made the French club open to selling him, although they are not prepared to accept any offer.
Some reports have put Paris Saint-Germain’s asking price at 170m euros, while others have suggested it is closer to 150m euros. Whatever the final figure, Liverpool are not currently willing to meet that valuation.
The Telegraph reports that Liverpool are preparing an offer worth 130m euros. Sky Sports, however, says the club will not go beyond 115m euros.
Liverpool Echo says the Merseyside club wants to negotiate a lower fee and has placed Barcola at the top of its attacking shortlist. The player’s reported preference for a move to Liverpool could help the English side in the talks.
Paris Saint-Germain and manager Luis Enrique are understood to want a replacement for Barcola signed before allowing him to leave. Any transfer would also depend on all financial and sporting conditions being satisfied.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano says negotiations are expected to continue over the coming days. Liverpool hope to complete the deal quickly, but Paris Saint-Germain remain in control of the pace and direction of the discussions.
Tomori talks and possible departures
Liverpool are also making tangible progress towards signing Fikayo Tomori from AC Milan. The England defender, who is under contract with the Italian club until 2027, is highly rated by Liverpool and is being considered to strengthen a defence weakened by injuries.
At the same time, the club are working on two potential departures to generate funds for further recruitment.
Curtis Jones is facing increasing pressure to leave, with only one year remaining on his contract. Inter Milan have renewed their interest in the midfielder and are willing to pay about 35m euros, while Liverpool are seeking 40m euros. His departure is hoped to be completed this week.
Liverpool Echo also reports that the club would strongly welcome Harvey Elliott’s exit. The midfielder has been linked with Leeds United and RB Leipzig.
Federico Chiesa is another player attracting interest, with Atletico Madrid seeking to sign the Italy international. Chiesa, however, is determined to prove himself under Iraola and does not want to leave Liverpool.
