Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool leading the race to sign world-class forward | OneFootball

Bradley Barcola transfer latest as Liverpool step up interest in PSG winger

Liverpool’s interest in Bradley Barcola appears genuine and active, with the Premier League champions understood to be pushing harder than rival suitors for the Paris Saint-Germain forward. Fabrizio Romano has provided multiple updates on Liverpool’s interest in the attacker…

Barcola, 23, is viewed as one of the most exciting attacking options on the market, although any deal would be extremely difficult. PSG are expected to seek a fee in the region of €150 million, a valuation that immediately makes this one of the most expensive moves of the summer if it gathers real momentum.

The timing is notable. Barcola’s camp had previously paused contract discussions while he concentrated on France duty at the World Cup, and now attention is expected to shift back towards his future and the options being discussed with his representatives.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool transfer interest grows

The strongest detail in the latest update is the suggestion that Liverpool’s pursuit is more advanced than Arsenal’s. Romano said: “On Barcola, there is still a possibility for him to leave Paris Saint-Germain. I’m told this whole summer that he is not untouchable.” He then added: “Many of you ask me about Arsenal, I stand by my information – they are not at the moment advancing for Barcola,” the Italian journalist explained. “Not Arsenal… Liverpool are pushing for Barcola. Liverpool remain interested in the player and he is high on the list.”

That aligns with Liverpool’s search for wide attacking reinforcement under Andoni Iraola, who has already indicated the club are working on a winger addition and recognise a need for more depth and quality in the flank positions.

PSG stance and market reality

There is still a very large gap between interest and a completed transfer. PSG hold a strong position and Barcola’s talent, age profile and ceiling explain why the French champions would demand a premium. Liverpool may admire the player deeply, but the financial aspect will dictate whether this becomes a live negotiation or remains an ambitious preference.

Reports involving Barcelona have also been played down, leaving Liverpool as the standout club in this particular story for now. If PSG maintain their €150 million valuation, alternatives such as Maghnes Akliouche may yet come into sharper focus.

Our View

Barcola looks like a top-level modern winger, quick, direct, technically sharp and capable of giving defenders a miserable afternoon. If Iraola wants more threat out wide, it is easy to see why this name would be near the top of the list.

The obvious concern is the price. €150 million is elite-money territory, and Liverpool have usually been disciplined even when chasing premium talent. That does not mean the interest is any less serious, only that supporters should probably expect plenty of moving parts before anything gets close. A deal at that figure would need total conviction from the recruitment staff and the head coach.

There is also a wider point here. After the collapse in 2025/26, Liverpool need signings who can raise the level immediately and fit the next era quickly. Barcola feels like that calibre of player. If he is genuinely attainable, fans will hope the club explore every angle. If the valuation proves too steep, then the key is landing someone of similar profile who can stretch games, beat players and restore unpredictability in attack. Either way, this report suggests Liverpool are aiming high, and that alone will encourage supporters.