Liverpool have had to adjust their plans in the search for a high-profile winger after their top target, Yan Diomande, expressed his desire to join Paris Saint-Germain. The Reds are now looking at Bradley Barcola, who is also under contract with the Parisian club, as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.

• Diomande leaning toward the Parc des Princes

  Liverpool have abandoned the pursuit of Diomande, the highly rated RB Leipzig talent. The 19-year-old winger, who impressed during the World Cup, is now expected to commit to the Ligue 1 champions.

  PSG are very confident about finalising an agreement with Leipzig quickly. The Bundesliga side initially demanded a huge fee, which ultimately cooled Liverpool’s interest, as they refused to exceed their internal valuation for the young star.

  
  

  
  

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• Liverpool view Barcola as primary option

  With Diomande seemingly heading to Ligue 1, Liverpool have reportedly turned their attention 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 succeeding Salah, especially after the successful signing of Victor Munoz from Osasuna.

  The French international’s situation at PSG is complex. Although he remains highly regarded, his future is 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 over Arsenal, raising questions about his long-term prospects under Luis Enrique.

• A departure looms for Barcola

  PSG are not actively looking to offload Barcola, but they may be forced to sell him this summer. With his current deal running for just two more years, 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 block his departure if a suitable 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 seem the most determined to test PSG’s resolve, especially if Barcola returns from international duty still concerned about his role within the team.

• Barcola’s trophy-laden PSG spell

  Signed by Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023 for €45 million, Barcola has since made 152 appearances for the Parisians in all competitions. The attacker has scored 39 goals and provided 37 assists. His trophy haul at PSG includes twelve honours, among them 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.

By Mariama Hamani — Analyst