Why it's trending
Liverpool are set to make an opening bid for PSG winger Bradley Barcola, a key target to replace Mohamed Salah. Reports of a personal agreement and a looming transfer battle have sparked fan interest, especially as the clubs remain far apart on a fee.
Liverpool are preparing an opening bid for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, according to multiple sources. The 23-year-old France international has emerged as Liverpool’s top target to replace Mohamed Salah, who left the club at the end of the 2025-26 season. Barcola is understood to be keen on moving to Anfield and has reportedly reached an agreement in principle with Liverpool after discussions with new manager Andoni Iraola.
However, the two clubs are far apart in valuation. PSG have indicated they value Barcola at around £145 million, but Liverpool have no intention of meeting that price, aiming instead for a deal closer to £100 million. Barcola has two years remaining on his PSG contract and has informed the club he will not sign a new deal, wanting a new challenge in the Premier League. Goal.com, citing L'Equipe, reports that Barcola is determined to secure regular starting opportunities after being used as a substitute in key Champions League matches.
Barcola, a product of Lyon's academy, joined PSG in August 2023 and has since made 152 appearances, scoring 39 goals and providing 37 assists. Last season he played 49 times, contributing 13 goals and 7 assists as PSG retained Ligue 1 and won the Champions League. He also featured in all eight France fixtures at the 2026 World Cup, scoring three goals. Despite competing with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue, his game-time in the latter stages of PSG's Champions League run came from the bench, fueling his desire to move.
The transfer saga is far from over, with PSG holding out for a monumental fee exceeding €120 million. Liverpool hope Barcola's personal agreement and refusal to extend his contract will push negotiations forward. Signing Salah's replacement has not been straightforward; Liverpool initially targeted RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande but have now focused on Barcola. The outcome will hinge on whether the clubs can bridge the valuation gap before the transfer window closes.
Timeline
- Mohamed Salah leaves Liverpool
Mohamed Salah departed Liverpool after the 2025-26 season, leaving a vacancy on the right wing. The Athletic reported this as the context for Liverpool's search for a replacement.
- Liverpool identify Barcola as top target
Liverpool set their sights on PSG winger Bradley Barcola as their primary target to replace Salah, according to multiple sources including ESPN and The Athletic.
- Barcola agrees in principle with Liverpool
Goal.com reported, citing L'Equipe, that Barcola reached an agreement in principle to join Liverpool after positive talks with new manager Andoni Iraola and club executives.
- Liverpool set to make opening bid
The Athletic reported that Liverpool are set to make an opening bid for Barcola, with PSG valuing the player at around £145m and Liverpool aiming for a fee closer to £100m.
Questions people ask
How much will Liverpool pay for Bradley Barcola?
PSG value Barcola at around £145 million, but Liverpool are hoping to negotiate a deal closer to £100 million, given the player's desire to leave and refusal to sign a new contract.
Is Bradley Barcola a replacement for Mohamed Salah?
Yes, Liverpool see Barcola as their top target to replace Mohamed Salah, who left the club at the end of the 2025-26 season. Barcola plays predominantly from the left but can operate on the right flank.
Has Barcola agreed personal terms with Liverpool?
According to Goal.com and L'Equipe, Barcola has reached an agreement in principle with Liverpool after talks with new manager Andoni Iraola. However, no formal contract has been signed.
Why does Barcola want to leave PSG?
Barcola became frustrated with being used as a substitute in PSG's most crucial fixtures, particularly during the Champions League run. He wants regular starting opportunities and sees Liverpool as the ideal next step.
Join the conversation 0
Comments are reviewed before publishing.