Liverpool are preparing to open formal transfer talks with Paris Saint-Germain over winger Bradley Barcola, with an opening offer already drawn up following preliminary discussions with the player's representatives.

Replacing Mohamed Salah has been Liverpool's foremost transfer priority, and Barcola has long been on their radar. The arrival of manager Andoni Iraola — whose sides at Bournemouth and Rayo Vallecano were built on the pace, energy, and relentless work-rate of wide players — makes the 23-year-old a particularly attractive target.

A frustrated star at PSG

Barcola has two years remaining on his Paris Saint-Germain contract and has indicated he has no intention of signing an extension. Sources suggest the chance to join Liverpool holds genuine appeal for the player, with frustration over limited game time in high-profile matches cited as a key factor.

Despite being part of a squad that has claimed nine major trophies in the past two years — including back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles — Barcola was used as a substitute in both finals. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's arrival from Napoli in January 2025 cemented the Georgian as the first-choice left winger under Luis Enrique, pushing Barcola down the pecking order.

A fee that could break records

The central obstacle is Paris Saint-Germain's valuation. Sky Sports News reported that the club values Barcola as high as £145 million (€170 million), though separate sources have suggested a figure closer to £128.5 million (€150 million) may be acceptable. PSG signed Barcola for around £40 million in 2023.

Either figure would make him one of the most expensive transfers of this summer window. Liverpool will need Paris Saint-Germain to show willingness to negotiate before any deal can progress.

Arsenal also in the picture

Liverpool are not alone in their pursuit. Arsenal also hold an interest in Barcola, adding competitive pressure to the negotiations.

Sky Sports' Adam Bate describes Barcola as a player of pace, physicality, and intelligence — qualities refined under Luis Enrique in Paris — and argues that, despite not starting those two Champions League finals, Barcola's ceiling remains exceptionally high. With the potential comes the price tag to match.