Liverpool Target PSG’s Bradley Barcola as Backup Option to Isak
Liverpool are reportedly lining up Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as a fallback if their pursuit of Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak does not succeed before the transfer window shuts on September 1.
The 22-year-old moved to PSG from Lyon in the summer of 2023 and has impressed with his skill and creativity, although he was not a regular starter under Luis Enrique last season. Barcola began 14 of his 34 Ligue 1 appearances, contributing an impressive 14 goals and 11 assists in that time.
Liverpool Maintain Isak Focus but Keep Barcola in Reserve
Alexander Isak remains Liverpool’s top target as the transfer window enters its final weeks, with the Swedish striker eager to join Arne Slot’s Premier League champions. However, Newcastle United are unwilling to sell the 25-year-old after missing out on several signings, including Benjamin Šeško, who joined Manchester United for £74 million.
Reporter Florian Plettenberg has indicated that Liverpool could turn to Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola if Newcastle refuse to sanction Isak’s departure. PSG, who paid around £40 million for Barcola in 2023, are reportedly seeking double that figure, though the French club are relaxed about the situation and believe the interest could be tactical.
While stylistically different from Isak, Barcola’s arrival would free Hugo Ekitike to operate in his preferred central striker role, while also offering rotation options with Cody Gakpo on the left following Luis Díaz’s £65.5 million move to Bayern Munich.
Liverpool may still prioritise adding a new number nine after Darwin Núñez’s £46.3 million transfer to Saudi side Al-Hilal. The Reds have already had a busy summer, investing heavily in Florian Wirtz (£116 million), Jeremie Frimpong (£30 million), Milos Kerkez (£40 million), and Ekitike (£79 million).
