Liverpool Express Interest in Versatile Forward Ferran Torres as Barcola Alternative
Liverpool are exploring attacking reinforcements this summer following Mohamed Salah’s departure and have been linked with a bold move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola, with reports suggesting a potential £85m offer.
If that pursuit stalls, the Reds appear to have identified a more attainable and versatile option in Ferran Torres.
According to L’Équipe journalist Loïc Tanzi, Liverpool have expressed interest in the 26-year-old Spaniard, who recently scored the winning goal for Spain in the 2026 World Cup final against Argentina. PSG are also monitoring him, with manager Luis Enrique familiar with his qualities from the national team.
Why Torres Fits Liverpool’s Needs
Torres offers significant versatility, capable of playing as a centre-forward (his primary role at Barcelona last season) or on either flank. This flexibility would appeal to Liverpool’s new manager Andoni Iraola. His goal-scoring record is impressive:
- Manchester City: 43 appearances, 16 goals
- Barcelona: 207 appearances, 65 goals
- Spain: 65 appearances, 25 goals
He spent just 18 months at Manchester City (2020–early 2022) before moving to Barcelona, but a return to the Premier League in Liverpool red is plausible given his contract situation.
Transfermarkt values him at around €50m (£42.5m). With his Barcelona deal entering its final year (expiring June 2027), a reasonable fee could be negotiable — though his World Cup heroics have likely inflated his price and attracted more suitors.
Strong Underlying Stats
Torres performed at an elite level in La Liga last season (2025/26), ranking highly among positional peers (per FotMob metrics):
- Non-penalty xG per 90: 0.6 (94th percentile)
- Goals per 90: 0.73 (90th)
- Shots on target per 90: 1.69 (90th)
- xG per 90: 0.6 (88th)
These numbers highlight his consistent threat in the final third.
Realistic Plan B?
A “low-cost” deal looked possible earlier in the window, but Torres’ form in North America (during the World Cup) and growing interest have shifted the dynamics. Barcelona are reportedly reluctant to lose him cheaply and may even look to extend his contract (despite some internal hurdles).
Liverpool fans should treat these reports cautiously until more credible Merseyside sources weigh in. That said, Torres ticks several boxes: proven Premier League experience, multi-positional threat, strong international pedigree, and a profile that could provide immediate depth and rotation options without breaking the bank.
He represents a sensible, high-upside Plan B if the ambitious Barcola pursuit proves too complicated or expensive. Expect more movement on Liverpool’s attacking targets in the coming weeks as the summer window heats up.
