Liverpool are believed to be the leading contenders in the pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.
While Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with the 23-year-old, sources indicate that Liverpool have made the most progress behind the scenes and are currently the most active in exploring a potential move.
Barcola is expected to leave PSG this summer, although no firm negotiations have taken place yet, with a final decision likely to be made later in the window. Arsenal have previously monitored the French winger, but their interest has not developed beyond scouting, whereas Liverpool’s admiration is described as genuine and serious as they plan to reshape their attack in anticipation of life after Mohamed Salah.
Liverpool at the front of the queue for Barcola
The Reds view Barcola as a long-term wide forward to build around, with Arne Slot aware of the need to strengthen his front three.
Salah has endured a disappointing campaign, while recent additions such as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz have taken time to adapt. Barcola is seen as a profile that could add a fresh dimension out wide, and Liverpool’s interest has reportedly intensified after missing out on Antoine Semenyo, who joined Manchester City.
Potential obstacle in the Barcola deal
However, sources caution that Barcola’s future could still remain in Paris, depending on developments surrounding PSG’s managerial situation.
“Barcola has found regular minutes hard to come by under Luis Enrique, but with a change of manager expected in the summer, he could yet be handed a more prominent role,” a source explained.
“Liverpool’s interest is very strong, and if his situation doesn’t improve he would be open to a move, but the managerial decision at PSG is a key factor.”
Although a departure remains likely, Barcola could still feature in PSG’s long-term plans depending on who takes over in the dugout and how that shapes their transfer strategy. Despite his limited game time under Enrique, the Spanish coach has previously praised the winger as “superb” and a player of great “quality,” according to Get French Football News.
