Liverpool have been forced to adjust their plans in the hunt for a top-class winger after primary target Yan Diomande made clear his desire to join Paris Saint-Germain. The Reds are now turning their attention to Bradley Barcola, currently under contract with the Parisian club, as they look to fill the gap left by Mohamed Salah’s departure.

Diomande leans towards the Parc des Princes

Liverpool have abandoned the pursuit of Diomande, the RB Leipzig prodigy. The 19-year-old winger, who impressed during the World Cup, is now expected to commit to the Ligue 1 champions. PSG are highly confident of finalising a quick agreement with Leipzig. The Bundesliga club initially demanded a colossal fee, which cooled the Reds’ interest as they refused to exceed their own internal valuation of the young talent.

Liverpool view Barcola as the main option

With Diomande seemingly headed to Ligue 1, Liverpool have reportedly turned to Barcola. The 23-year-old winger features prominently on the shortlist drawn up by Anfield’s recruitment team. His profile matches the criteria for eventually becoming Salah’s successor, especially after the successful signing of Victor Munoz from Osasuna. Barcola’s situation at PSG is complex. Though still highly regarded, his future remains uncertain due to frustration over not being selected for the biggest matches. Specifically, Barcola was disappointed not to start in PSG’s recent Champions League final victory against Arsenal, raising questions about his long-term prospects under Luis Enrique.

An exit looms for Barcola

PSG are not actively looking to part with Barcola, but they may be forced to sell this summer. With only two years left on his current contract, this is the last chance for the Parisian club to secure a significant fee if the winger refuses to extend. The club will not let him go cheaply, but they are unlikely to stand in his way if a satisfactory offer arrives. Arsenal have been mentioned as a possible destination, but the Gunners appear focused on other targets for now. As the transfer window heats up, Liverpool emerge as the most determined club to test PSG’s resolve, especially if Barcola returns from international duty still uneasy about his role in the team.

Barcola’s trophy-laden spell at PSG

Signed by Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023 for €45 million, Barcola has since appeared in 152 matches across all competitions for the Parisian side. The attacker has scored 39 goals and provided 37 assists. His trophy cabinet at PSG boasts twelve honours, including two Champions League titles and three Ligue 1 championships. During the World Cup group stage, he scored against Senegal and provided an assist against Norway for the French national team.