Report: Liverpool ramp up chase for PSG's Bradley Barcola

The Premier League champions have already invested heavily this summer, spending approximately 265 million pounds to bolster their title-winning squad with six major signings.

Their ambition is clear: not only to defend their domestic crown but also to challenge for European glory. To balance the books, Liverpool have recouped around 144 million pounds through player sales, with a potential deal for Darwin Nunez nearing completion, giving them financial flexibility for further high-profile additions.

While Newcastle's Alexander Isak remains their top target, Liverpool are exploring alternatives due to complications in negotiations. The Magpies have rejected a 110 million pound bid for the Swedish striker, valuing him closer to 150 million pounds, and are reluctant to sell until they secure a replacement, per L'Equipe.

This has prompted Liverpool to reignite their long-standing interest in Barcola, a versatile forward who can play as a winger or central striker.

Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported that Liverpool are "set to proceed with a concrete offer" for Barcola, who is valued by PSG at over 100 million euros. However, both the player and his club appear committed to continuing their journey together.

"PSG don't want to sell Barcola, they prepared a new huge contract offer for the end of the window," Romano said on his YouTube channel. "The only way for Barcola to leave would be to say he wants to join Liverpool."

Barcola, who notched 26 goals and 30 assists across all competitions last season, played a key role in PSG's historic Champions League triumph, making them only the second French club to lift the trophy. Despite competing with elite attackers like Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Desire Doue for a starting spot, Barcola remains a cornerstone of Luis Enrique's plans.

ESPN's Julien Laurens emphasized, "PSG have ruled out any possibility of Barcola leaving this summer, and the player is eager to stay at the Parc des Princes."

Fabrizio Romano clarified Liverpool's strategy, stating, "It's not Barcola and Isak. If Newcastle open the doors, Liverpool will go for Isak. That deal is absolutely still alive." He added that no formal talks have occurred with Barcola's camp, but Liverpool could make a move before the transfer window closes if the Isak deal collapses.

Florian Plettenberg echoed this sentiment on X, noting, "Liverpool are closely monitoring the situation of Bradley Barcola. However, there have been no offers or advanced talks with the player's camp at this stage. Alexander Isak remains the priority target for LFC."

The Reds' transfer activity shows no signs of slowing, with additional funds potentially incoming.

Reports suggest Tottenham are eyeing Liverpool's Harvey Elliott as a replacement for the injured James Maddison, while Leeds United are exploring a 20 million pound move for another squad player, according to journalist James Pearce.

As the transfer window nears its climax, Liverpool's bold moves signal their intent to build a squad capable of dominating both domestically and in Europe. Whether they land Isak, Barcola, or both, the Reds are poised to make waves before the deadline.