Andoni Iraola hopeful Liverpool get winger boost with Bradley Barcola signing

Reports have claimed Liverpool have reached an agreement in principle with PSG for the France international in a deal worth around 120 million pounds, with more than 100 million pounds guaranteed.

Iraola refused to confirm the deal but admitted Liverpool are looking to strengthen on the wing.

"As you know, we are trying to sign in that position, and as you know we cannot talk about players that, right now, are not ours," Iraola said.

"But it is evident that we are trying to improve or trying to fill that position because we don't have the numbers. I hope we can have good news soon, but we are still not there."

Barcola, 23, joined PSG in 2023 and has made 152 appearances for the French club, scoring 39 goals and providing 37 assists. He was also part of France's squad at the World Cup.

Liverpool are looking for more attacking options following Mohamed Salah's departure, while Hugo Ekitike is out with a long-term injury.

The potential arrival of Barcola would add further competition alongside Alexander Isak, Cody Gakpo, Rio Ngumoha and Victor Munoz.

Gakpo's future has also attracted attention, with reports linking the Netherlands forward with Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City.

However, Iraola praised the 27-year-old's attitude after an impressive pre-season and his goal in Liverpool's 2-2 draw at Newcastle United on the opening weekend.

"Very good attitude and I hope we can keep him at that level because I think he has been very influential in our games," Iraola said.

"When the market is open, we have almost 30 players, you cannot guarantee anything with anyone."

Iraola will now prepare for his first competitive home match as Liverpool manager when Nottingham Forest visit Anfield on Saturday.

The Spaniard admitted the occasion will be an emotional one after taking over from Arne Slot following Liverpool's disappointing fifth-place finish last season.

"It is definitely a special moment for me," Iraola said.

"I already felt it in pre-season. When the competition starts for me, I will be thinking of the game and the things I need to think of. But it is going to be emotional and I think it has to be like this.

"It is a special place. I had to fight a lot to arrive to this place, and I hope everything goes well and I can enjoy the game."