Liverpool’s transfer window has been nothing short of a blockbuster, with the Reds splashing nearly £300 million ($400m) on new signings, including Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong. Yet, their pursuit of Newcastle’s star striker Alexander Isak has hit a brick wall, prompting Arne Slot’s side to reignite their interest in Paris Saint-Germain’s dynamic winger Bradley Barcola, according to L’Equipe.
Barcola, a long-term target for Liverpool, is reportedly valued at €100m (£133.5m), a hefty sum that would push the club’s summer spending to unprecedented heights. The 2024-25 season saw the Frenchman shine at PSG, contributing an impressive 21 goals and 19 assists across all competitions as the Parisian giants clinched both the Champions League and Ligue 1. Despite his stellar performances, Barcola has slipped down the pecking order at Parc des Princes, making a move to Anfield a tantalizing possibility.
However, the 22-year-old operates primarily as a left-sided winger, not as a traditional No.9 like Isak. This positional difference could see Liverpool adapt their attacking setup, potentially deploying new signing Hugo Ekitike as a central striker if Barcola joins. Arne Slot is keen to bolster his frontline, but with their bid for Isak rejected and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo also named as an alternative, Liverpool face a critical decision in their transfer strategy.
While the Reds’ financial muscle is clear, their £300m spree may not stretch far enough to secure both Barcola and Isak. L’Equipe suggests Barcola is currently more likely to stay in Paris, adding further uncertainty to Liverpool’s plans. With time ticking in the transfer window, the Anfield faithful will be eager for clarity on their top target as Slot aims to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.
Liverpool’s ambition is undeniable, but their pursuit of Isak now hangs in limbo. Will they pivot to Barcola and reshape their attack, or double down on their efforts for the Newcastle star? One thing is certain: the Reds’ next move will send shockwaves through the footballing world.