In a sensational twist to Liverpool’s January transfer window, the Reds are reportedly ramping up efforts to secure a blockbuster €100m deal for Paris Saint-Germain’s rising star Bradley Barcola. This comes alongside significant developments in their pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, as Arne Slot looks to bolster his squad amid uncertainties over key players. With Mohamed Salah’s future hanging in the balance, Liverpool’s hierarchy is wasting no time in planning for the long term.
Liverpool Eye Barcola as Salah Successor
Liverpool’s attacking line could be set for a major overhaul, with PSG forward Bradley Barcola emerging as a prime target. According to reports from CaughtOffside, the Anfield club has positioned itself as the “early favourites” to land the 22-year-old French international, outpacing rivals Arsenal and Chelsea in the race.
Barcola, who joined PSG from Lyon in 2023, has impressed with his pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring prowess, making him an ideal fit for Slot’s high-pressing system. Sources indicate that Liverpool have “shown the strongest interest” and have “done the most work” on a potential transfer, with the club holding “serious interest” in the winger.
The move is fueled by concerns over Salah’s contract situation. The Egyptian superstar, now 33, publicly expressed frustrations with Slot and the club’s leadership before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Even if Salah extends his stay beyond the current season, Liverpool recognize the need to prepare for life without their talismanic forward.
PSG, however, won’t let Barcola go cheaply. The Ligue 1 champions are expected to demand around €100m (£87m) for the player, who has stalled on contract extension talks due to worries about his role in the squad. It’s understood that Barcola “looks likely” to depart the Parc des Princes this summer, putting Liverpool on high alert.
Our transfer insider Graeme Bailey confirmed on January 8 that both Liverpool and Arsenal have made enquiries about Barcola’s availability, underscoring the Reds’ proactive approach in what could be one of the window’s biggest deals.
Double Boost in Marc Guehi Pursuit
In defense, Liverpool’s interest in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi has received a double lift. The England international, whose contract at Selhurst Park expires on June 30, is a top priority for Slot as he seeks to strengthen the backline.
The Sun reports that Palace are holding out for £40m if Guehi is to leave in January—a figure notably higher than the £35m agreement Liverpool struck last summer, which ultimately fell through. Despite the inflated price tag and Guehi’s impending free-agent status, competition is heating up.
Manchester City have recently intensified their pursuit, but The Athletic reveals that Guehi “prefers Liverpool” over a move to the Etihad. This preference aligns with updates from our transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher, who notes that Liverpool are “growing increasingly confident” of securing the 24-year-old.
Fletcher adds that Guehi would favor a switch to either Liverpool or Arsenal rather than City, and the Reds are prepared to “accelerate negotiations” should Pep Guardiola’s side make a formal approach. With Virgil van Dijk’s contract also entering its final months, Guehi’s arrival could provide much-needed depth and youth to the center-back position.
Chiesa’s Potential Juventus Return Adds Intrigue
Adding another layer to Liverpool’s transfer narrative is the situation surrounding Federico Chiesa. The Italian winger, signed from Juventus last summer, has struggled for consistent minutes under Slot due to fitness issues and competition in the squad.
Italian journalist Nicolo Schira reports that Chiesa has “given his availability” to rejoin Juventus this month, with “direct talks” between the clubs scheduled for this week. Liverpool prefer a permanent sale to recoup some of their investment, but Juventus are pushing for a loan deal with an option to buy.
Further details from Tuttosport and Sky Italia suggest a compromise could be reached: a loan with a conditional obligation to purchase, triggered by a set number of appearances. This clause would address Juventus’ concerns over Chiesa’s injury history while allowing Liverpool to offload a player who hasn’t fully integrated.
Chiesa’s potential departure could free up funds and squad space, potentially accelerating moves for targets like Barcola.
What This Means for Liverpool
As the January window progresses, Liverpool’s transfer strategy under Slot and the new hierarchy is taking shape. Securing Barcola would signal ambitious intent, providing a long-term heir to Salah’s throne, while Guehi’s addition would shore up a defense that has shown vulnerabilities this season.
With the Reds challenging for the Premier League title and progressing in Europe, these moves could prove pivotal. Fans will be watching closely as negotiations unfold—could this be the bombshell that propels Liverpool to new heights?
Stay tuned for more updates as the transfer saga develops. You’ll Never Walk Alone, Reds supporters—exciting times ahead!